If you’re an X-Men fan, the recent revival of X-Men ’97 on Disney+ has stirred up a whirlwind of emotions, especially for those who have a soft spot for Gambit. The latest episodes have taken viewers on a rollercoaster ride, culminating in a shocking moment where Gambit sacrifices himself in the episode titled “Remember It.” This heart-wrenching scene left fans reeling, especially after the intense events that unfolded on Genosha.
However, before the emotional turmoil of Gambit’s fate, the character had already made waves in the series for two standout reasons. First, he showcased an impressive combo move with Wolverine, and second, he donned a delightfully retro crop top that has become a talking point among fans. A.J. LoCascio, the voice actor for Gambit, expressed his surprise at the attention the crop top received, stating that he initially thought it was just a fun addition to the character’s wardrobe.
The combo move that has fans buzzing involves Gambit charging Wolverine’s claws with explosive kinetic energy. This moment, which was first teased in the X-Men ’97 trailer, was a highlight of the episode “To Me, My X-Men.” Director Jake Castorena was taken aback by the enthusiastic fan reaction to this scene. LoCascio shared his excitement about the moment, recalling how he felt when he first read the script and then saw it animated. He described the experience as surreal, noting that the visual execution exceeded his expectations.
Gambit’s ability to charge Wolverine’s claws is a fresh take on the character’s powers, as it hasn’t been explored in previous X-Men media. Castorena mentioned that one of the goals for X-Men ’97 was to present familiar mutant abilities in new and exciting ways while staying true to the established canon. This particular moment certainly fits that bill.
On a lighter note, Gambit’s crop top has taken the fandom by storm. In the early scenes of “To Me, My X-Men,” Gambit is seen wearing the crop top while preparing beignets at the X-Mansion. LoCascio, who was initially unaware of the crop top’s potential to become a viral sensation, was pleasantly surprised by the fan response. He mentioned that he even owns a similar shirt in real life, albeit a full-length version, and humorously reflected on how a simple photo of him wearing it at a convention went viral.
Despite the lighthearted moments surrounding Gambit’s character, the series has taken a darker turn with his recent sacrifice. In “Remember It,” Gambit gives his life to destroy a Wild Sentinel that wreaked havoc on Genosha, resulting in the loss of many mutants, including Magneto. While there is always the possibility of time travel or other plot twists bringing him back, for now, Gambit has left a significant void in the X-Men lineup, with Nightcrawler stepping in to fill his role.
As fans eagerly await the remaining episodes of X-Men ’97, the excitement surrounding Gambit’s character continues to grow. The combination of his iconic moves, memorable fashion choices, and the emotional weight of his storyline has reignited interest in the character. LoCascio’s portrayal has resonated with audiences, and many are hopeful for Gambit’s future in the series and beyond.
With four episodes left in the season, fans are left to speculate on what lies ahead for Gambit and the rest of the X-Men. The series has already proven to be a nostalgic trip for long-time fans while also introducing new elements that keep the story fresh and engaging. As the X-Men navigate their challenges, the legacy of Gambit, both in his heroic moments and his quirky fashion choices, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the series.
As the excitement builds, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on the remaining episodes and any announcements regarding future seasons. The revival of X-Men ’97 has not only reignited interest in the beloved characters but has also sparked discussions about their arcs and potential developments in the Marvel universe.
In conclusion, A.J. LoCascio’s enthusiasm for Gambit’s return, coupled with the character’s memorable moments in X-Men ’97, has created a buzz that resonates with both old and new fans alike. The combination of action, humor, and emotional depth has made this revival a noteworthy addition to the X-Men legacy, and Gambit’s journey is far from over.
Source: CinemaBlend
