Marvel’s X-Men Crossover Lays Groundwork for Jonathan Hickman’s Imperial

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As the climax of the X-Men crossover event, “X-Manhunt,” unfolds, it sets the stage for Jonathan Hickman’s interstellar saga, “Imperial.” In typical Marvel fashion, the conclusion of one storyline frequently paves the way for the next grand adventure. In this instance, “X-Manhunt” revolves around Professor Charles Xavier, the X-Men’s erstwhile tutor, breaking free from confinement, placing the X-Men in a precarious position as they grapple with deciding whether to aid or apprehend him. A surprising twist for readers was the repercussions of Professor X’s actions on Earth, which will significantly influence events unfolding in “Imperial” that take place among the stars. SPOILER ALERT: Spoilers for X-Manhunt Omega #1 lie ahead.

Title #1 of “X-Manhunt Omega” is penned by Murewa Ayodele, Gail Simone, Gleb Melnikov, Federica Mancin, Enid Balam, Brian Reber, and VC’s Travis Lanham. This marks the end of an event that has unfolded across all Marvel X-Men comic series. As Charles Xavier and his revived lover, Lilandra of the Shi’ar Empire, prepare for a journey into deep space to save their daughter Xandra, Xavier gathers his X-Men one last time before parting ways. In a touching moment, he speaks privately with Lilandra, trying to comfort her when she expresses hope that he will return to Earth. However, Xavier responds with a foreboding statement: “I don’t think I will.

These negative thoughts may be a clue to Charles Xavier’s fate in Imperial.

Does Marvel plan on killing Charles Xavier in Imperial?

In the continuation of his remarkable work during the Krakoa era, writer Jonathan Hickman returns with a new series titled “Imperial“. This four-issue event, illustrated by renowned artists Federico Vicentini and Iban Coello, promises intrigue as it unfolds. Though details are scarce, we do know that a significant plot point revolves around the murder of influential galactic leaders. Readers may recall an earlier hint at this when Professor Xavier received a psychic distress call from his daughter Xandra in the initial chapter of “X-Manhunt“. This distress signal ultimately led to Xavier’s escape from Graymalkin Prison.

Space turbulence will impact both Earth-dwellers and interstellar characters like Hulks, Black Panther, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Novas, as the stage is set for a completely new universe of connected space stories. Many beloved franchises are likely to be affected, particularly those with a cosmic backdrop. The Shi’ar Empire has historically been central to these space narratives, even when the X-Men are not directly involved. If powerful leaders such as Xandra from the Shi’ar are under threat, it won’t take long for the X-Men to step in and intervene.

Additionally, there was the mysterious statement from Charles Xavier in the final episode of X-Men Omega. Could this be a hint from Marvel about Xavier’s potential death in the future, known as his “Imperial” murder? It’s possible that Xavier may sacrifice himself to save Xandra, thereby saving her life, while Marvel temporarily retires Xavier for an extended period. After enduring all that Xavier experienced during the Fall of X, he could certainly benefit from a break while Marvel prepares to resurrect him once the X-Men officially join the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Hickman expressed great enthusiasm about the project, being a known admirer of cosmic Marvel elements. His aim is to replicate, in a way, the impact of the latest Ultimate series across our space comics, but with IMPERIAL serving as a significant event rather than just world-building (similar to Ultimate Invasion). The art team is doing an exceptional job, and everyone involved is eager for what’s unfolding in this unique part of the Marvel Universe.

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2025-03-28 17:42