Are we finally going to get an answer to this monthslong mystery? Shortly before X-Men ‘97 premiered on Disney+ in March, show creator Beau DeMayo was reportedly fired from the project. The reason for his abrupt exit wasn’t clear. At the time, Marvel exec Brad Winderbaum told Entertainment Weekly that he would characterize DeMayo’s departure not as a firing, but rather a parting of ways.
However, after DeMayo recently leveled allegations against Marvel on social media , the studio has changed its tune: Marvel is now claiming that DeMayo was “terminated” due to the “egregious findings” of an internal investigation. Here’s what to know about DeMayo’s hiring and apparent firing, including new reports that level allegations of sexual misconduct against him and a statement from his attorney declaring that he will “bravely tell the truth.” He joined X-Men ‘97 (the Disney+ revival of X-Men: The Animated Series ) as show creator, executive producer, and head writer — news that was celebrated by those excited to see a Black gay man’s take on characters who are deemed societal outcasts.
However, DeMayo was reportedly fired just days before the first season premiered on Disney+ in March. He was said to have already completed work on the second season. Neither DeMayo nor Disney initially offered an explanation for his departure.
X-Men ‘97 season one debuted to critical acclaim, and has been nominated for Outstanding Animated Program at this year’s Emmy Awa.