This is NOT just flattery—Marvel really impresses with their attention to detail.
Today, I want to highlight a brief moment from ‘X-Men 1997.’ If you’re an X-Men fan, you probably noticed it right away!
In the scene where the US President refers to the ‘Magneto Protocol’ (a network of satellites designed to counteract this Omega-level mutant), every single line in the document stands out—especially the AKA names: David Hemblen; Ian McKellen; Michael Fassender.
Let’s take a closer look!
David Hemblen
The first line of AKA name is David Hemblen – voice actor who portrayed Magneto in “X-Men: The Animated Series.”
Known for his measured, distinguished voice performance, Hemblen captured the complexity and depth of Magneto, transforming him from a mere villain to a multifaceted character.
His ability to imbue Magneto’s lines with just the right amount of drama made his portrayal resonate deeply with fans, influencing a generation’s view of the character.
Hemblen’s excellence in the role was so pronounced that director Bryan Singer considered him for the live-action X-Men film in 2000.
Throughout the series’ 5 seasons, Hemblen explored the humanity within Magneto, offering a nuanced interpretation that went beyond the comic book pages.
Following his passing in November 2020, successor Matthew Waterson insisted on maintaining Hemblen’s vocal essence to keep the character’s integrity intact, ensuring that Hemblen’s influence on Magneto’s image would endure in subsequent adaptations.
Ian McKellan
The second one – as you may notice quite immediately, Ian McKellen as Magneto in the X-Men film series left a lasting impression on Marvel fans.
Making his debut in the 2000 film “X-Men” and appearing in subsequent sequels, McKellen brought a complex, layered interpretation to Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto).
His character was portrayed as a radical-minded mutant, committed to his cause, even if it meant mass destruction or betraying close allies like Professor X.
McKellen’s performance was compelling and became one of the most iconic representations of Magneto, shaping how the character is viewed in popular culture.
McKellen’s Magneto was memorable for his dramatic use of powers, including turning police guns against them and lifting the Golden Gate Bridge in “X-Men: The Last Stand.”
His nuanced depiction of Magneto’s relationship with Professor X added depth to their complex dynamic.
As the original Magneto in the film series, McKellen’s legacy continues to influence the portrayal of this character, cementing his role as a definitive version of the powerful mutant.
Michael Fassbender
In the “X-Men” film series, the third name – Michael Fassbender, brilliantly brought Magneto to life in a way that really resonated with Marvel fans.
Debuting in “X-Men: First Class” and continuing through “X-Men: Days of Future Past” (younger Magneto), “X-Men: Apocalypse,” and “X-Men: Dark Phoenix,” Fassbender added a profound emotional layer to Magneto’s character.
His depiction highlighted Erik’s transformation into Magneto, enriching the character with humanity and making him both relatable and sympathetically antagonistic.
Fassbender’s performances have been compelling, shaping one of the more recognized and discussed interpretations of Magneto among fans.
Despite this, Fassbender himself has had mixed feelings about his role, particularly his performance in “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” which he critiqued as “just some dude shouting.”
Yet, reflecting post-“Dark Phoenix,” this actor shared, “I think I had a great run. I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
His nuanced portrayal has significantly influenced the cinematic image of Magneto, leaving a lasting legacy on the series.
Bonus: Matthew Waterson
The last name I want to add to this list is Matthew Waterson, the voice actor for Magneto in “X-Men ’97.”
As Magneto continues to be a complex, layered character, this series presents Erik with a powerful test of his resolve, challenging him to become the man Xavier believed he could be.
This emphasis on character development amid all the larger-than-life spectacle and drama is one of “X-Men ’97’s” greatest strengths.
Matthew Waterson absolutely nailed it. He delivers all of Magneto’s lines with a profound sense of determination and focus.
You can hear in much of his dialogue that Magneto’s past is a driving force for him, making Waterson’s delivery, paired with that thematic train symbolism, truly exceptional.
What do you guys think? How do you feel about this fascinating easter egg? Share your thoughts!