X-Men ’97 Episode 6 introduced a lot of new and returning characters, including Lilandra. With her return from the original series, some fans are wondering if Lilandra is a villain in X-Men ’97.
Along with if she’s going to be an antagonist, newer fans of the franchise are also wondering about her relationship with Charles Xavier. After all, the two are quite close.
To answer these, it’s first important to understand Lilandra’s role in the original show.
Spoiler Warning: This article includes spoilers for X-Men ‘97, so proceed with caution.
What Role Does Lilandra Play in the Original X-Men: The Animated Series?
While Lilandra only appeared in the new series in Episode 6, she has played a role in X-Men: The Animated Series.
In the Phoenix Saga of the original animated series, Lilandra asked the X-Men to help save the Shi'ar Empire from her brother. She was able to contact the X-Men through Charles Xavier.
During this story arc, the X-Men were able to help Lilandra, and she took the throne of the Shi'ar Empire. Lilandra then asked Xavier to join him there, though he declined.
Lilandra also played a role in the Dark Phoenix Saga, though after this, she did not play a big role in the following arcs.
In the final episode though, Lilandra comes to Earth to take Xavier away to their empire. That’s because Xavier was attacked, with the only potential cure being with the Shi'ar Empire.
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X-Men ’97: Is Lilandra a Villain?
In the various comic book storylines, Lilandra has been allied with the X-Men. She even sees Charles Xavier as an equal given his abilities.
There were times that Lilandra acted against the X-Men such as in the comics’ Dark Phoenix storyline.
Still, even though they have found themselves on opposite sides, Lilandra is generally not a villain. This should also be the case for X-Men ’97.
Instead, the show is building up Vulcan to be the key villain moving forward.
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Is Lilandra Charles Xavier’s Love Interest in X-Men ’97?
As for the relationship between Lilandra and Charles Xavier, the two have formed a special bond in the comic storylines, to the point that they were married at some point.
In X-Men ’97, while they don’t explicitly address their relationship, it’s quite clear based on their actions in Episode 6 that the two have a special relationship.
What are your thoughts on Lilandra’s appearance in X-Men ’97? Let us know what you think in the comments.
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