Marvel's X-Men '97 is back for a second season, and the casting news keeps getting better. The latest addition? None other than Naoko Mori, best known for her role as Toshiko Sato in the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood, who will voice the iconic telepathic ninja Psylocke (aka Betsy Braddock).
Mori is no stranger to genre fans. Beyond Torchwood, she recently appeared in the final season of Prime Video's The Boys as Golden Geisha. She's also done voice work in Big Hero 6: The Series and starred in the period drama Mr. Malcom's List. Now, she brings her talents to the mutant universe.
In X-Men '97 Season 2, the timeline has splintered. One storyline follows an older Cable (voiced by Chris Potter), while another features his younger self, Nathan Summers, voiced by Michael Johnston. It's in the mature Cable's timeline that we meet Psylocke, a fan-favorite character with a rich history in Marvel Comics.
Psylocke first appeared in 1976, created by Chris Claremont and Herb Trimpe. She's been portrayed in live-action by Olivia Munn in X-Men: Apocalypse and Meiling Melançon in X-Men: The Last Stand. In animation, Tasha Simms voiced her in the original X-Men: The Animated Series. Now, Mori steps into the role, adding her own spin to the beloved character.
Mori's casting is a treat for fans of her previous work. In Torchwood, she played the brilliant but shy Toshiko Sato, a computer expert who worked alongside Captain Jack Harkness. Her performance made Tosh a fan-favorite, and her ability to convey depth and vulnerability will serve her well as Psylocke, a character known for her psychic powers and fierce independence.
For those who haven't been keeping up, X-Men '97 has been a hit for Disney+, reviving the classic animated series with modern storytelling. The show has already introduced a host of new characters and plot twists, and Season 2 promises even more mutant mayhem. If you're looking for other animated adventures, check out Disney's Dragon Striker Returns for Season 2.
Psylocke's addition is a big deal for fans who have been waiting for more screen time for the character. With Mori's experience in both live-action and voice acting, she's perfectly suited to bring Betsy Braddock to life. The show continues to expand its impressive cast, and this latest announcement only adds to the excitement.
Season 2 of X-Men '97 is streaming now on Disney+. Don't miss the chance to see Naoko Mori's Psylocke in action. And while you're at it, catch up on other Marvel news, like Daniel Brühl's Baron Zemo Returns in New Marvel Promo.
