X-Men 97 Teases Major Marvel Villain Debut

X-Men '97 delivers shocking twists in Episode 5, hinting at the arrival of Cassandra Nova and setting up a complex villain.

We are now at the midpoint of the debut season of X-Men '97, and the Marvel Animation series has been keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its unexpected twists and turns. The latest episode, which aired this week, took the excitement to new heights and may have introduced a complex new villain into the mix. Spoilers for X-Men '97 Episode 5, "Remember It", ahead - proceed with caution if you want to know more!

In the climactic final moments of "Remember It", a massive Sentinel attacks Genosha's gala, throwing the island nation's plans for a mutant safe haven into chaos. The ensuing battle appears to result in the deaths of Magneto, Gambit, and several other characters. While the identity of the mastermind behind the "Godzilla Sentinel" remains a mystery, the insect-like design hints at the involvement of Cassandra Nova.

Who is Cassandra Nova in the Marvel Universe?

First introduced by Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly in 2001's New X-Men #114, Cassandra Nova is the long-lost twin sister of Charles Xavier, also known as Professor X. After a prenatal clash with Charles that led to her stillbirth, Cassandra survived and harbored a deep-seated grudge against her brother, seeking to dismantle everything he held dear. Her actions, including the massacre of millions of mutants on Genosha, have made her one of the X-Men's most formidable foes.

While it's not confirmed yet that Cassandra Nova will appear in X-Men '97, the potential for her inclusion opens up a wealth of storytelling opportunities. With Charles Xavier seemingly out of the picture, Cassandra could target the X-Men and the mutant population at large, setting the stage for a gripping conflict with Magneto. The upcoming debut of Cassandra Nova in the Deadpool & Wolverine film adds further weight to this theory.

What is the premise of X-Men '97?

Marvel Animation's X-Men '97 brings back the beloved 1990s era of The X-Men, a diverse group of mutants who use their extraordinary powers to defend a world that fears and despises them. As they face new and dangerous challenges, the X-Men must confront an uncertain future filled with surprises.

The voice cast of X-Men '97 features Ray Chase as Cyclops, Jennifer Hale as Jean Grey, Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, Cal Dodd as Wolverine, JP Karliak as Morph, Lenore Zann as Rogue, George Buza as Beast, AJ LoCascio as Gambit, Holly Chou as Jubilee, Isaac Robinson-Smith as Bishop, Matthew Waterson as Magneto, and Adrian Hough as Nightcrawler. Head writer Beau DeMayo leads the creative team, with episodes directed by Jake Castorena, Chase Conley, and Emi Yonemura. The series is executive produced by Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, and DeMayo, promising an exciting and action-packed continuation of the X-Men saga.