X-Statix #20

X-Statix #20 was released in 2004 as the concluding chapter of the X-Statix series, a satirical Marvel title written by Peter Milligan and illustrated by Mike Allred. The series emerged from the earlier X-Force reboot, intentionally subverting the gritty tropes of the 1990s comic book industry by reframing mutant superheroes as narcissistic, fame-obsessed pop culture celebrities who prioritized media coverage and branding over traditional heroics.

The issue is best known for its meta-commentary, featuring the team agreeing to a controversial request to film a reality television show featuring the late Princess Diana, an artistic choice that sparked significant real-world discussion about the nature of celebrity and editorial ethics. Allred’s distinct, retro-pop art style was instrumental in defining the book's aesthetic, providing a bright, clean contrast to the cynical and often grim subject matter explored in Milligan’s scripts, ultimately securing the title a devoted cult following.