In 2021, Marvel fans were introduced to a groundbreaking Marvel show on Disney+: Jac Schaeffer’s WandaVision. This show marked a new era for Marvel’s TV series, blending classic sitcom styles with superhero drama in a way never seen before.
WandaVision received praise for its clever nods to historical television and its unique approach to storytelling. It also captured the imagination of fans, who flocked to social media each week to share theories, celebrate the performances of Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff) and Paul Bettany (Vision), and discuss the many amusing side characters that enriched the show’s narrative.
One character who particularly stood out was Agatha Harkness, portrayed by Kathryn Hahn. Initially introduced as Agnes, Wanda’s friendly but somewhat nosy neighbor, Agatha’s true identity as a powerful witch was revealed later in the series.
Her character quickly became a fan favorite, partly due to her catchy theme song and charismatic performance. This popularity led Disney to announce that Agatha would be getting her own spin-off series titled Agatha All Along. With filming completed and new stars added to the cast, let’s show what we know so far about this highly anticipated show.
Who Is Agatha Harkness?
Agatha Harkness is a complex character with a rich history both in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and in Marvel Comics. In WandaVision, Agatha is introduced as Agnes, a seemingly benign neighbor living next door to Wanda Maximoff in the town of Westview. The show portrays Agatha as a supportive friend, but as the story unfolds, her true nature is revealed.
Agatha’s backstory is steeped in dark magic and ancient conflicts. Originally, she was a member of a coven in Salem, Massachusetts, during the infamous Salem Witch Trials. In 1693, Agatha’s coven, which had forbidden the practice of dark magic, decided to execute her for her defiance.
Instead of facing her fate, Agatha fought back, killing the coven members present at her trial. She then went on to kill her own mother, Evanora (played by Kate Forbes), and escaped, flying away to continue her studies in magic.
Agatha’s centuries of magical study fueled her envy of Wanda’s innate magical abilities, which she saw as a threat to her own power. This jealousy culminated in a dramatic showdown between Agatha and Wanda, where Wanda ultimately cursed Agatha to live out her days in Westview, trapped in her role as Agnes.
In contrast, Agatha’s story in the comics offers a different perspective. Since the 1970s, Agatha Harkness has been a significant character in Marvel Comics, playing an essential role in the lives of the Maximoff twins. In the comics, Agatha is portrayed as a mentor and teacher to Wanda.
However, their relationship takes a tragic turn when Agatha dies at Wanda’s hands after it is revealed that Wanda’s children were illusions. Despite her death, Agatha’s ghost continues to support Wanda, and she has been resurrected in some recent comic storylines. Kathryn Hahn, who plays Agatha, has teased exciting elements for the series, saying:
“Her costumes and her nails. They’re fabulous. And who knows, there may be a little song here or there… but no one is saying anything about that — certainly not me!”
When Will ‘Agatha All Along’ be Released?
Marvel originally announced at the 2022 San Diego Comic-Con that Agatha All Along would be released in winter 2023. However, the release has been pushed to September 18, 2024.
This delay has only heightened anticipation among fans. The series will consist of nine episodes, a welcome change from the usual six-episode format of most Marvel TV shows, with the notable exception of WandaVision, which also had nine episodes.
The extended episode count suggests that the show will have ample time to show its characters and plotlines in greater depth. Fans are eager to see how the new series will build on the intriguing elements introduced in WandaVision and whether it will bring new layers to Agatha’s character and her magical world.
Who Are the Cast of ‘Agatha All Along’?
The cast of Agatha All Along features several new stars alongside Kathryn Hahn. Joe Locke, known for his role in Heartstopper, has joined the cast. Fans are speculating that Locke might play an older version of Wanda’s son, Billy, given his involvement in the series.
Aubrey Plaza, best known for her work on Parks and Rec, is also confirmed as part of the cast. However, details about her role remain a mystery. Plaza praised the show, saying:
“Coven of Chaos [the show’s previous title] was so fun. I wanted very much to work with Kathryn Hahn. I think she’s so great. And without saying anything really, I had a blast. I loved my character in that as well, and I think it’s the most upgraded Marvel material that’s out there. So, it was cool to jump into that world with those people specifically.”
Additionally, Ali Ahn and Maria Dizzia from Orange Is the New Black have been cast in undisclosed roles. Fans have speculated that they might portray witches from Agatha’s original coven. Sasheer Zamata, known for her work on Saturday Night Live, has also joined the cast, though her role has not been revealed.
Emma Caulfield Ford, who played Dottie in WandaVision, will return in her role. While the nature of her return is still unclear, it is exciting to see her back. Notably, Dottie is also known as Sara Proctor, the name of a real-life witch from the Salem Witch Trials.
This connection could hint at future developments for Dottie in the MCU. Ford teased that Dottie “could probably level up her personal life a little bit,” adding, “I don’t know what I am. Maybe I’m fabulous.”
Debra Jo Rupp, who played Mrs. Hart in WandaVision, will also return for the new series. The specifics of her role are still unknown. Patti LuPone, a Broadway icon, has been cast as Lilia Calderu. In the comics, Calderu becomes an ally of Doctor Strange. LuPone shared her excitement about the role, saying:
“Well it’s a coven of witches, and I play Lilia Calderu, who apparently is in the Marvel world, and I researched her, she’s hot! She’s really hot! She is! She’s got a great body, raven hair.”
Does ‘Agatha All Along’ Have A Trailer?
The first trailer for Agatha All Along has already been released, offering a view into what fans can expect from the new series. The trailer takes us back to Agatha’s house and revisits the world of Westview. It hints at the continuation of the story from view into what fans can expect from the new series.
The trailer takes us back to Agatha’s house and revisits the world ofWandaVision, showing Agatha and other witches coming together. This teaser has generated excitement, giving fans a taste of the magical and mysterious elements that will be featured in the series.
Who Is Making ‘Agatha All Along’?
Jac Schaeffer, who created and executive produced WandaVision, will return as the writer and director for Agatha All Along. While many details about the behind-the-scenes team are still under wraps, it is known that Kevin Feige, the head of Marvel, will be the executive producer.
The project does not currently include Matt Shakman, who directed WandaVision, but fans can expect a team of talented writers to contribute to each episode. The creative team’s approach to the show will be closely watched, especially given the success of WandaVision.
As we await the release of Agatha All Along, anticipation continues to build. With its intriguing premise, returning characters, and a mix of new and familiar faces, the series promises to add a new dimension to the Marvel universe.
