The post-credits scene in the X-Men ’97 Season 2 finale perfectly sets up the third season with the explosive return of a popular antagonist. Meanwhile, the sophomore season ends on a bittersweet note, depicting death, reunion, and impending danger.
Mystique returns in X-Men ’97 Season 2 finale post-credits scene
The X-Men ’97 Season 2 finale post-credits scene establishes the foundation of the third season on multiple fronts. At the end of the main narrative, Kurt Wagner / Nightcrawler makes the ultimate sacrifice by convincing Eson the Searcher, a Celestial, to let him take Rogue’s place after she chose to do the same for Gambit.
As the X-Men find a semblance of contentment in the aftermath, new troubles start to brew. The post-credits scene shows a news clip revealing that Graydon Creed, Nightcrawler’s mutant-hating half-brother, has become the new President of the United States of America,
The scene follows who appears to be National Security Advisor Valerie Cooper, who is going through Mystique’s file. The door opens, and the real Valerie walks in. Understandably, she’s surprised. But even before she’s able to voice her shock fully, the doppelganger shoots her. She then transforms, revealing her true identity as Mystique.
“Don’t mind me, just catching up on some reading,” Mystique tells the woman writhing on the ground. “Mystique determined to attack the United States,” she reads before transforming back into Valerie. She then turns back to Valerie and notes, “I’ll say,” before killing her.
Given that Mystique is Creed’s estranged biological mother, it’s safe to assume that her reappearance will serve as a significant narrative component in the third season. With Kurt dead, it will be interesting to see how that plays out. Rogue might fill in for him to deal with their messy family dynamic.
Mystique’s reappearance and her replacing Valerie will also likely have long-term effects on Xavier and the rest of the X-Men, who have always sought a peaceful coexistence with humanity. Mystique’s return will likely hinder their aspirations.
