Beau DeMayo Reveals He Was Planning a Dark and Gritty Future for ‘X-Men ’97’

As a long-time fan of the X-Men franchise, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia mixed with a twinge of disappointment when I think about the latest developments surrounding the animated series. Beau DeMayo, the creative mind behind the revival, has been unceremoniously ousted from the project, leaving many of us wondering what could have been.


Regardless of the challenges faced by X-Men ’97 and the modifications it introduced to the series’ narrative, this animated adaptation proved to be a major triumph for Marvel Entertainment. Numerous elements played a role in its popularity, although we shan’t delve into every single factor in this discussion.

To those who’ve seen the initial show, the new animated version stirred up joyful recollections due to its superb storyline and animation that closely resembled the original one.

Indeed, it makes sense why Disney opted to continue the series, but what’s worth noting is that a new group of creatives won’t be responsible for Season 1’s production this time around.

It’s reported that Beau DeMayo, the originator and head of the reboot series, has been dismissed – with claims being made about sexual misconduct as the reason – and he is currently embroiled in a conflict with Disney.

As a passionate gamer, I recently stumbled upon an intriguing discussion on Twitter between fans, where Beau DeMayo shared his initial vision for Season 3. He mentioned that his concept was intended to be grittier and darker, but it seemed too intense for Disney’s standards. The show is now heading towards a more kid-friendly direction, which contradicts the recent media reports suggesting a continuation of the original dark theme.

Beau DeMayo brought back the cherished 90s animated X-Men show, but he was dismissed before its release allegedly due to inappropriate conduct involving sexual behavior. Since then, DeMayo has been countering Disney’s claims with a string of intriguing tales.

However, it’s the insights that DeMayo shared during his recent Twitter conversation with followers that catch our attention in this piece. He responded to queries and disclosed some intriguing behind-the-scenes facts about the production process.

In this analysis, we’ll zero in on the tweets where DeMayo shares his intentions for Seasons 3 and beyond to be more intense and raw, stating that the revised Disney version will have a significantly lighter tone.

Initially, I aimed for a gloomy and intense approach. However, they’ve opted for a lighter, more child-appropriate version instead, with a stronger emphasis on the school setting. My intention was to explore cosmic adventures for X-Men and the Age of Apocalypse, but it seems they’re trying to tone things down now.

— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) September 24, 2024

This is a lie. They felt my season 2 was too dark.

— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) September 24, 2024

It seems they found a tale of battling in a hostile world to be more of a light-hearted choice. I attempted to remind them that the original series thrived without catering to children. However, my suggestions fell on deaf ears, as I was disregarded by this executive and director.

— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) September 24, 2024

As a gamer, I was deeply immersed in the game’s world when suddenly, without any warning, my five-season strategy was obliterated due to political maneuverings. This unexpected event caused a significant rift within our creative team.

— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) September 24, 2024

From where I stand, the tweets are scattered, yet brimming with intriguing tidbits! I’m positively thrilled about what we might uncover when the second season unfolds, providing us a chance to make meaningful comparisons.

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2024-09-27 16:14