Former X-Men ’97 Showrunner Claims Discriminatory Treatment and Credit Removal by Marvel

Beau DeMayo, the creator and head writer of the Disney+ animated series X-Men ’97, said he was terminated by Marvel Studios Animation in March 2024 before the show’s premiere. DeMayo, who completed scripts for the first two seasons, told Vanity Fair that he had disclosed his personal OnlyFans activity to the studio and was told it was permissible as long as it was not used to promote the series. He later described feeling treated as a “DEI hire,” recalling remarks that suggested his hiring was based on meeting diversity criteria rather than merit.

DeMayo also said he was asked to contribute to the cancelled Blade reboot starring Mahershala Ali and described receiving “racist, sexist, homophobic vibes” during that project. After his departure, he alleged that Marvel removed his credit for season two after he posted X-Men fan art for Pride Month. Marvel responded that DeMayo’s termination followed an internal investigation that uncovered “egregious” findings, and that the credit removal resulted from breaches of a separation agreement linked to alleged sexual misconduct. The company declined further comment.

In September 2024, DeMayo’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, called the allegations against his client “false” and criticized Disney for what he described as a pattern of illegal behavior and media manipulation.

"Mr. DeMayo was terminated in March 2024 following an internal investigation. Given the egregious nature of the findings, we severed ties with him immediately and he has no further affiliation with Marvel," a Marvel spokesperson said.

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over workplace culture and diversity initiatives within major entertainment studios.