In addition to having a full film schedule, Marvel seems to have decided to give animation top priority in 2024. For example, created by Beau DeMayo, the beloved 90s program X-Men: The Animated Series made a comeback on Disney+ as X-Men ‘97. Along with Wolverine, Storm, Beast, and Rogue, the shapeshifter Morph also plays a substantial part in the show’s plot.
The Season 1 finale has prompted a number of questions in the wake of the show’s epic conclusion. One of the most burning questions, regarding a potential romantic interest between Morph and Wolverine, was recently addressed by the writer & former showrunner of the series. Taking to X, Beau DeMayo has set the record straight on Wolverine and Morph’s relationship in a way that’s bound to ruffle the feathers of plastic fans who resist change.
Note that prior to the show’s premiere, a few fans voiced their disapproval of Morph’s sexual orientation after learning that the character would be portrayed as non-binary.
Fan Opinions on Morph’s Representation in X-Men ‘97
Before X-Men ‘97 made its premiere on Disney+, it was revealed that Morph would be portrayed as non-binary (via Gizmodo). However, the series—whose last episode aired on May 15, 2024—uses the pronoun he/him and sticks to 90s terminology.
Although Wolverine and Morph’s friendship was alluded to in the first two episodes, it appears that the shape-shifting mutant might be up to something…more. It should be noted that the mutant shapeshifter, first appearing in the comic book, Uncanny X-Men #35 in 1967, is a key character in Beau DeMayo’s show and has been integral to the plot.
However, some fans have expressed hesitation about the non-binary label that is associated with the character’s name in response to Morph’s description in an Empire Magazine article (via X-Men Updates). Many people felt that the character’s sexual orientation only served to complicate and lessen the overall significance of his past and had no bearing on it or his importance to the plot.
Morph's characterization in ‘X-MEN '97’:
“This is a lighter take on the character, who is nonbinary and has an interesting buddy relationship with Wolverine. The character’s past with Mister Sinister, the show’s villain, could also come into play.”
(via @empiremagazine) pic.twitter.com/fGCAgvm1li
— X-Men Updates (@XMenUpdate) February 15, 2024
During Wolverine’s critical condition in the season finale, Morph morphs into Jean and declares his love for him, saying, “I love you, Logan, stay with me”. Although fans have discussed other Wolverine-Morph moments, this one is, without a doubt, the most decisive!
Morph transforming into Jean and telling Wolverine “I love you Logan, stay with me” is some sick work from Marvel 😭 #XMen97 pic.twitter.com/wWJIQmaCqE
— Zero (@zerowontmiss) May 15, 2024
Fans have since argued over what the real significance of that line is. Although Wolverine is frequently linked to female romantic interests such as Jean and Mariko from The Wolverine, he has also had male partners in the past. In actuality, Logan and Hercules had a brief romantic relationship (see CBR).
Whether or not you choose to look into that more is up to you. Despite our doubts that Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation will explore further romantic relationships between the two X-Men, we can’t help but wonder what impact Morph’s unfulfilled love will have on him going forward.
However, Beau DeMayo’s response brings an important perspective to the conversation.
X-Men ‘97 Showrunner Sheds Light on Morph’s Love for Wolverine
The X-Men series has always been about embracing differences and celebrating diversity, and Beau DeMayo’s decision to make Morph’s feelings romantic in X-Men ‘97 is in line with the inclusive spirit of the franchise. His latest response, however, to the discussion about Wolverine and Morph’s relationship, adds a crucial viewpoint to the discussion.
He maintained that every aspect of Morph’s confession to Logan was “romantic”, including the script and the story bible. Not to mention that he openly and frequently discussed this throughout production. In his words:
From story bible to the script, Morph’s confession to Logan was always romantic. I discussed this openly and often during production. Suggesting otherwise, never mind contradicting the intention of a queer writer-showrunner, is both offensive and straight-washing. #xmen97
— Beau DeMayo (@BeauDemayo) June 10, 2024
This candid assessment of Morph’s character sketch seems to be positive for X-Men ‘97 because the first season’s success prompted the birth of a second and a third (in development).
Anyway, DeMayo’s commitment to authenticity and representation in X-Men ‘97 is something to be celebrated and appreciated. Rather than upsetting fans, his decision to address the relationship between Wolverine and Morph in a genuine and respectful way can help pave the way for more inclusive storytelling in the future.
X-Men ’97 is streaming on Disney+.
