Fox have confirmed they have begun development on a live action TV series based on the X-Men.

The Marvel comic book series, about a team of mutants with superhuman powers, has already been made into a series of blockbuster movies starring the likes of Sir Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman, Jennifer Lawrence and Michael Fassbender, as well as a cartoon for the small screen.

Michael Fassbender as X-Man Magneto (Twentieth Century Fox)
Michael Fassbender as Magneto (Twentieth Century Fox)

Now Fox entertainment chairman Gary Newman has told TV Insider they are hoping to create a live action TV show based on the hit characters, but they are working to overcome a current obstacle.

Though Twentieth Century Fox controls the film rights to the X-Men characters, the comic itself is owned by Marvel, which is based at rival film studio Disney. The TV series would have to win Marvel’s blessing.

X-Men comic book cover (IYL/AP)
X-Men comic book cover (IYL/AP)

Gary said: “It’s in negotiations. We’re cautiously optimistic, we had a good meeting with them. That will not be on a fast track creatively. This is just the deal, now we have to find the creative.”

Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique in X-Men (Twentieth Century Fox)
Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique in X-Men (Twentieth Century Fox)

But the Hollywood Reporter claims preliminary talks have already begun with potential plot developers.

A source said 24 producers Evan Katz and Manny Coto are in discussions to co-create the series, with scriptwriters Patrick McKay and JD Payne, who wrote Star Trek 3.

Fox recently announced plans to revive hit series The X-Files, 24 and Prison Break.