“Agatha” is an upcoming American miniseries developed by Jac Schaeffer for Disney+, inspired by the Marvel Comics character Agatha Harkness and serving as a spin-off from the acclaimed series WandaVision (2021). Positioned within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the show is a collaboration between Marvel Studios and 20th Television, maintaining narrative continuity with the broader franchise. Schaeffer takes on multiple roles as head writer and lead director.
Kathryn Hahn reprises her role as Agatha Harkness, supported by a cast including Aubrey Plaza, Joe Locke, Patti LuPone, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Debra Jo Rupp, and Miles Gutierrez-Riley. Development commenced around October 2021, with Schaeffer and Hahn confirmed early on, leading to the series’ formal announcement in the subsequent month. Directors Schaeffer, Gandja Monteiro, and Rachel Goldberg were enlisted in early 2023 before filming commenced from mid-January to late May 2023 at Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, with supplementary shooting in Los Angeles. Originally labeled with various subtitles, including “House of Harkness” and “Coven of Chaos,” the series was officially titled “Agatha” by March 2024. It is slated to debut on Disney+ as part of Phase Five of the MCU, consisting of nine episodes.
In the narrative, Agatha Harkness faces a power struggle following her escape from confinement in Westview, New Jersey. Seeking to reclaim her lost abilities, she seeks unlikely allies to aid her in her quest.
CHARACTERS
- Kathryn Hahn portrays Agatha Harkness, a formidable witch who disguised herself as “Agnes,” the nosy neighbor in the fictional WandaVision sitcom. Described by co-executive producer Mary Livanos as deep, heartfelt, and dangerous, Harkness plays a pivotal role in the series.
- Aubrey Plaza takes on the role of Rio Vidal, a member of Harkness’s coven alongside Calderu. Plaza’s character is a witch with significant ties to the mystical world explored in the series.
- Joe Locke plays Billy Kaplan, described as a gay teen with a dark sense of humor and a familiar within the witching community. Locke’s portrayal adds depth to Kaplan’s character, contributing to the diverse ensemble of the show.
- Patti LuPone embodies Lilia Calderu, a 450-year-old Sicilian witch known for her expertise in divination. As a member of Harkness’s coven, LuPone’s character brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the series.
- Sasheer Zamata portrays Jennifer Kale, a sorceress with a deep connection to the world of witchcraft. Zamata’s interest in the subject prior to the series adds authenticity to her portrayal of Kale, enriching the narrative with her performance.
- Ali Ahn appears as Alice, another witch within the mystical realm explored in the series. Ahn’s character contributes to the rich tapestry of magical beings populating the show.
- Debra Jo Rupp reprises her role as Sharon Davis, a resident of Westview, New Jersey, who previously portrayed “Mrs. Hart” in the WandaVision sitcom. Rupp’s return adds continuity to the series, bridging the gap between the two interconnected shows.
- Miles Gutierrez-Riley plays Hulkling, Kaplan’s boyfriend, adding layers to Kaplan’s personal life and relationships. Gutierrez-Riley’s portrayal brings depth and authenticity to the character dynamics explored in the series.
STORYLINE
“Agatha” delves into the odyssey of Agatha Harkness, a formidable witch who once assumed the guise of “Agnes,” the prying neighbor in the make-believe world of the WandaVision sitcom. Freed from captivity in Westview, New Jersey, Agatha finds herself bereft of her magical prowess, prompting her to embark on a quest to restore her formidable abilities. Throughout her journey, she forges unlikely alliances, enlisting the help of individuals whose paths intertwine with her own.
Traversing the enigmatic realms of the mystical, Agatha encounters Rio Vidal, a fellow witch within her coven, and Lilia Calderu, a venerable 450-year-old Sicilian practitioner adept in divination. Together, they unite their strengths, forming a potent coalition committed to exploring the arcane and confronting the trials that lie ahead. Their collaborative efforts delve deep into the hidden recesses of magic, unveiling long-held secrets and navigating perilous encounters.
Against a backdrop teeming with danger and enigma, “Agatha” delves into profound themes of power dynamics, individual identity, and the quest for redemption. Each installment of the series serves as a voyage of discovery, as Agatha and her comrades unravel new enigmas while confronting formidable adversaries who stand in their path. Their journey is marked by a relentless pursuit to reclaim what was once theirs and to unearth the full extent of their mystical potential.
