X-Men ’97 Creator Takes Marvel to Task: Disney Rewriting History?

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The original creator of X-Men ’97, Beau DeMayo, has had a prolonged dispute with Disney and Marvel Studios following his dismissal as the director of the superhero series just before its debut on Disney+. Behind the scenes, there have been whispers of controversial behavior and creative conflict that made the production of X-Men ’97 more like a soap opera than a typical TV show creation. Yet, the ex-director has some sharp words prepared for an upcoming book delving into the series.

After a panel discussion at WonderCon 2025 featuring team members, Beau DeMayo shared his insights on the actual events that transpired while creating X-Men ’97, via X.

To set the record straight regarding some confusion at #wondercon, it’s important to note that I, Jake Castorena, had no hand in writing the iconic #xmen97 series. This is intriguing, as I find myself puzzled by being tasked with penning the foreword for the forthcoming Making of Book. The only individual who ever managed a line or two in the script was Chase Conley, as evidenced by his infamous line, “Minds…”, echoing through comic book history.

— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) April 14, 2025

I find it puzzling that Jake Castorena, who had no involvement in the writing of #xmen97, is penning the foreword for the upcoming Making of Book. The only person who ever contributed to the script was Chase Conley, who once wrote, ‘Minds are far harder to bend than metal.'”

Beau DeMayo

Jake Castorena is currently overseeing the production of ‘X-Men 97‘, a role he’s held since Beau Demayo was dismissed in March of 2024. Now, Beau has accused both Jake and Marvel Studios of attempting to alter historical facts regarding events that transpired backstage.

Once more, Marvel Studios and Jake Castorena appear to be manipulating the narrative and capitalizing on Julia Lewald (writer of X-Men 97) and Larry Houston (director of the ’90s X-Men series) without their awareness, much like they attempted to claim credit for Magneto’s death. – Beau DeMayo

Marvel Studios and Jake Castorena are again twisting the storyline and utilizing Julia Lewald (writer of X-Men 97) and Larry Houston (director of the ’90s X-Men series), seemingly unbeknownst to them, for their own purposes, just as they attempted to take credit for Magneto’s death. – Beau DeMayo

Beau’s assertions represent the most recent installment in a prolonged line of allegations against Marvel Studios and The Walt Disney Company, coming after he was dismissed from the show. Earlier, Beau hinted at revealing Marvel’s actions towards him in court if necessary.

After leaving the series, Beau DeMayo has maintained frequent interaction with its fans, many of whom are eager for him to contribute to the second season and share his ideas about the show’s future direction. On the other hand, there are some who have raised questions about whether the director is overlooking any missteps he may have made off-screen.

Beau DeMayo, in a less sensational manner, offered further comments about incorporating Peter Parker (or Spider-Man) into the series. After his dismissal, the character’s appearance made it to the final cut and provided fans with a sense of resolution for a Spider-Man show that had been left hanging for quite some time.

From the very beginning, the concept of Peter Parker was something I envisioned as it was important for viewers to understand that Peter had encountered Mary Jane (MJ) in the 90s series.”

– Beau DeMayo

Many people have been eagerly anticipating a follow-up TV series to the ’90s Spider-Man show that aired on Fox Kids, much like X-Men 97. Yet, it appears that Beau will not be involved in any future Marvel superhero project, despite numerous calls for his comeback.

The specific details behind the controversial creation of X-Men ’97 may gradually come to light, but it appears that Mr. DeMayo is dedicated to sharing his version of the truth with the general public.

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2025-04-17 16:55