Brad Winderbaum Explains Why Deadpool Couldn’t Appear in ‘X-Men ’97’ and Addresses Future Appearances

‘X-Men ’97’ emerged as an unexpected triumph for the Marvel studio amidst a string of disappointments. The series maintained consistently high ratings, staying faithful to the original animated show in both narrative and essence.
Throughout the episodes, numerous notable characters made cameo appearances. However, one prominent Marvel mutant was conspicuously absent: Deadpool. This absence was peculiar, especially considering his brief appearance in the original series and the anticipation surrounding his upcoming movie. Wouldn’t it have been ideal to further build excitement for him through the show?
Fans recently inquired about the absence of Deadpool to Beau DeMayo, the show’s creator, who disclosed that the Merc With the Mouth was not considered. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Brad Winderbaum, head of animation, provided further insight into the matter.
I don’t know that it was like a hard and fast rule that we couldn’t use Deadpool. We would have had to have an insanely compelling reason to bring Deadpool in. Because we’re also developing the feature simultaneously. So, unless it was something that really was an undeniable creative idea, it seemed like, ‘Why would we do it?’
But also, I’ll say, the season is so chock-full of big, giant, amazing fulfilling ideas that throwing Deadpool in there almost feels like arbitrary at a certain point.
Winderbaum also clarified that while Deadpool wasn’t included in season 1, it doesn’t mean he’s permanently excluded from the show.
Is there a potential for Deadpool to come in? Absolutely, he was in the original series, briefly as we all know, and certainly we’re all fans, so we’ll see what happens.
The first season of ‘X-Men ’97’ concluded with its last episode airing last Wednesday. Season 2 is already in production, and development for season 3 is underway. Rumors have circulated that the show aims to have as many seasons as possible, making it unlikely for Deadpool not to appear at some point.
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