Have Yourself a Morlock Little X-Mas is the quintessential X-Men holiday special that adds a mutant twist to the festive season. The episode kicks off with the X-Men preparing to celebrate Christmas, each with their own plans for the holiday. However, the mood quickly shifts when Storm, Wolverine, and Jubilee discover that their Morlock friends in the sewers are in dire need of help. The Morlocks are facing a crisis as Leech, the young mutant, is gravely ill and requires medical attention that they cannot provide on their own. This sets the stage for a heart-warming tale of compassion, teamwork, and the true spirit of Christmas.

Wolverine, known for his gruff exterior and reluctance to engage in festive activities, initially wants nothing to do with the Christmas celebrations. He’s not one for carols and decorations, preferring solitude over social gatherings. However, his attitude begins to change when he learns about Leech’s condition. Despite his tough demeanour, Wolverine has always had a soft spot for those in need, especially children. As the X-Men rally to save Leech, Wolverine’s gruff exterior starts to crack, revealing his deep sense of loyalty and care for his extended mutant family.

The episode beautifully captures the themes of family, sacrifice, and the importance of helping those less fortunate. The X-Men, who often face prejudice and danger, come together to bring hope and joy to the Morlocks, reinforcing the idea that family isn’t just about blood relations but also the bonds we form through shared struggles and mutual support. Adding a delightful touch of humour to the episode are the scenes between Jean Grey and Gambit in the kitchen. Their comedic attempts at holiday cooking provide a lighter contrast to the episode’s more serious moments and remind viewers that even superheroes have their relatable, down-to-earth moments.

At Xavier’s Mansion, the holiday spirit is in full swing as Cyclops, Rogue, and Jubilee decorate the Christmas tree, while Jean Grey and Gambit work their magic in the kitchen, preparing a festive dinner. Meanwhile, Jubilee, Storm, and Wolverine head out for some last-minute Christmas shopping. After finishing their errands, the trio decides to go ice-skating, but their fun is abruptly interrupted when they witness an ambulance crash. Investigating further, they find a group of Morlocks rummaging through the ambulance. A brief skirmish ensues, but it quickly comes to a halt when the X-Men learn that Leech is gravely ill and in desperate need of medical supplies. Concerned for the young Morlock, they head down to the Morlock sewers to see how they can help.

Wolverine examines Leech and grimly notes that the young mutant doesn’t have much time. In a desperate bid to save him, the X-Men decide to give Leech a transfusion of Wolverine’s blood, hoping that his healing powers will be transferred. As the transfusion gets underway, Jubilee receives a tour of the Morlocks’ living quarters from Marianna. The tour leaves Jubilee feeling empathetic toward the Morlocks, as she sees first-hand how little they have to celebrate the holiday season.

Back at the X-Mansion, the rest of the X-Men are still engrossed in their Christmas preparations, unaware of the life-and-death situation unfolding below the city. As the tension mounts, the X-Men come together, putting their differences aside to support each other. The transfusion proves successful, and Leech makes a miraculous recovery. With the crisis averted, Storm decides to step down as the Morlocks’ leader, handing the reins back to Callisto. In the spirit of unity and goodwill, the X-Men extend an invitation to the Morlocks to join them for Christmas dinner.

The gesture is a heart-warming one, although it leaves Jean and Gambit a bit miffed, having worked so hard on their holiday feast. Nevertheless, the combined dinner becomes a symbol of hope and solidarity, showcasing the true meaning of Christmas.

The X-Men have been seen celebrating Christmas many times over the years. They stopped by Rockefeller Center a few times too, first in Uncanny X-Men #98 and again in #341. They also celebrated in Uncanny X-Men #119, #143 and #365.

Storm hands leadership of the Morlocks back to Callisto. Leech’s survival in this episode takes on greater significance in X-Men ’97‘s Remember It.

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