Beau DeMayo Clarifies His Role in ‘X-Men ’97’ Season 2
The first season of X-Men ’97 wrapped up last week with the tenth episode, ‘Tolerance is Extinction – Part 3’. This Disney+ hit was praised for its writing, voice acting, and staying true to the ’90s X-Men: The Animated Series. The second season is already in development, but series creator Beau DeMayo, who left just before Season 1 premiered in March, will not be returning.
Interviews with the press were canceled just before the first season aired, and no clear reason was given for DeMayo’s departure. Brad Winderbaum, head of streaming, television, and animation at Marvel Studios, spoke about the situation before the two-episode premiere. He said he couldn’t discuss the details but praised DeMayo’s passion and excellent scripts that inspired the rest of the team. Winderbaum said, ‘I don’t consider it a firing. We parted ways is the best way I could say.’
Fans are curious about DeMayo’s involvement in Season 2. Recently, he broke his silence on social media, sharing insights into Season 1 but not explaining why he left Marvel Studios. On X (formerly Twitter), DeMayo clarified his role in Season 2. He said, ‘I did write a lot of Season 2. However, unlike Season 1, I will not be heavily involved or leading production, cast records, design, editorial, post, music, etc., nor doing any production rewrites as it relates to the creative vision of the show.’
Thank you. I did write a lot of season 2. However, unlike Season 1, I will not be heavily involved or leading production, cast records, design, editorial, post, music, etc., nor doing any production rewrites as it relates to the creative vision of the show. #xmen97
— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) May 17, 2024
He added, ‘This is why I’ve said I can’t really speak to Season 2. But, looking forward to seeing the final product with you all whenever it airs. I have high hopes.’ The Hollywood Reporter shared in March that DeMayo had completed writing duties on Season 2, indicating he still contributed to the new episodes.
When asked about DeMayo’s return for Season 3, Winderbaum confirmed they would have a new head writer. He said, ‘We are honoring Beau’s ideas for the second season.’ He also praised Jake Castorena, the supervising producer and head director of X-Men ’97, calling him ‘an amazing architect in his own right.’
Winderbaum explained that the visual storytelling comes from Castorena and the directing team, ensuring a consistent voice. He said, ‘The mantra is the same, the goals are the same, and the source material is the same. As long as we’re honoring the comics and the original show, that’s the core to the creative pursuit.’
All episodes of X-Men ’97 Season 1 are now streaming on Disney+.
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