First Look at Apocalypse Revealed as ‘X-Men ’97’ Season 2 Gets Release Window

Marvel Animation finally gave fans something to cheer about during its New York Comic-Con panel, revealing the first major update for X-Men ’97 Season 2.

The hit animated series will return in Summer 2026, and the new season will dive into the legendary Age of Apocalypse storyline from the comics. First look at Apocalypse was also showcased:

First look at Apocalypse in ‘X-MEN 97’ Season 2. pic.twitter.com/5QcH6pKx2L

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 11, 2025

The crowd at NYCC reportedly went wild when the first look was shown, marking the beginning of what many expect to be one of Marvel’s biggest animated events yet. X-Men ’97 has been praised for its nostalgic tone and faithfulness to the 1990s series, and excitement for the next chapter has been building ever since Season 1 ended.

Work on the second season started back in 2022, with writing completed by mid-2023. Jake Castorena, Chase Conley, and Emi Yonemura returned as directors, continuing the style and tone that helped make the revival so popular.

However, the production wasn’t without controversy.

Series creator Beau DeMayo, who wrote the first two seasons, was fired by Marvel Studios shortly before the premiere of Season 1.

Reports later claimed that his departure followed an internal investigation. Despite this, Marvel executives praised his contributions and said his exit would not delay future seasons.

Following his dismissal, DeMayo revealed that his original version of Season 2 was changed.

He said that Marvel removed his planned tenth episode, which would have introduced the villain Onslaught and further explored elements of the Age of Apocalypse comic storyline. DeMayo suggested that studio executives and directors wanted to take the story in a different direction.

Even with those creative changes, actor Ross Marquand described the upcoming season as “very, very dark,” hinting at multiple major character deaths and a heavier tone compared to the first season.

While fans will have to wait until 2026 to see how it all unfolds, the NYCC reveal has already reignited excitement for the mutant team’s return.

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