X-Men Introduces the New Kitty Pryde: A Clever Throwback You Might Have Missed

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Exceptional X-Men #5! Marvel has officially reimagined one of Kitty Pryde’s most iconic moments, the infamous “Professor Xavier is a jerk!” This pivotal scene heralds a significant shift within the X-Men, as a new recruit is set to inherit Kitty’s role as the team’s vibrant and eager newcomer. Kitty’s struggle to escape the shadows of her past, particularly her contentious relationship with Professor Xavier, showcases a compelling character arc.

In a key moment, Thao Tran echoes Kitty Pryde’s memorable declaration, expressing her disdain and opting to leave the team. This act not only serves as a nostalgic reference but also hints at Thao’s potential to embody Kitty’s spirited yet reckless persona as the newest member of the X-Men.

Kitty, alongside Emma Frost and Iceman, has been mentoring three new mutants, revisiting the dynamics of her relationship with Charles Xavier. This storyline rekindles discussions about whether Kitty could become Xavier’s successor, indicating a notable evolution within her character.

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Thao Tran (aka Melee) recreates Kitty Pryde's 'Professor Xavier is a jerk!' panel

Thao Tran’s homage to Kitty Pryde’s past not only serves as an entertaining nod but also symbolizes Kitty’s full-circle journey as she transitions from a promising young hero to a mentor figure. Thao, also known as Melee, shares Kitty’s phasing powers and a strong sense of justice, reflecting Kitty’s youthful zeal and inexperience. This parallel suggests that Melee could be on a similar path to Kitty, potentially stepping into her shoes as a fervent protector of mutant rights.

With Thao embracing the role of “prodigy,” Kitty may evolve from being a follower to surpassing Charles Xavier, emerging as the mentor that the new generation of X-Men urgently requires.

In the original scene from Uncanny X-Men #167, Kitty is relegated from the X-Men to a New Mutant due to her age and perceived lack of readiness for perilous missions. Ironically, Kitty’s youth was marked by regret over her premature involvement in conflicts, experiences that continue to haunt her as an adult. Now, as Thao steps into a role similar to Kitty’s former self, there is a strong possibility of Kitty Pryde becoming the transformative mentor the X-Men need.

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Thao’s evolution reflects Kitty Pryde’s journey and revitalizes the pre-Krakoa narrative where Kitty was positioned as Xavier’s potential successor. In Wolverine & the X-Men #1, Kitty rejoined the X-Men as the headmistress of the re-established Xavier school. Now, in the post-Krakoa landscape, Kitty is confronting her past while striving to glean valuable lessons from both Xavier and her mistakes.

While Kitty is rising to the challenge of leading the new generation effectively, other former X-Men, including Rogue and Cyclops, have faltered in their mentorship duties. Thao’s tribute to one of Kitty’s most memorable moments signals that significant shifts are underway within the dynamics of the X-Men. With the team fractured and Xavier incarcerated for his past misdeeds, it is the perfect moment for Kitty to transform into a more evolved version of Professor X—the steadfast leader the X-Men desperately need.

Exceptional X-Men #5 is currently available from Marvel Comics!

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