Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

As a dedicated fan of Marvel and a firm believer in representation, I must say that Kathryn Hahn‘s portrayal of Agatha Harkness in “Agatha All Along” is nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to seamlessly blend form with performance, and the incorporation of music into the narrative, truly sets this series apart from its contemporaries in the Marvel Universe.


It’s perfectly suited that the Marvel Cinematic Universe is exploring witchcraft more in Agatha All Along, as this vast franchise has been casting spellbinding careers for its actors during the past fifteen years.

Absolutely, Robert Downey Jr.’s rise to the pinnacle of Hollywood’s most highly-compensated actors, during his Iron Man tenure, and his subsequent return to that position as Doctor Doom, serves as a prime example. Similarly, Kathryn Hahn also provides a convincing case.

Although she had already achieved great success and garnered much respect before portraying Agatha Harkness in WandaVision, this role could still be seen as a significant milestone or pivotal moment in her professional journey.

Previously, she had primarily played secondary characters in various productions, ranging from comedies like “Anchorman” and “Step Brothers,” to more serious award-winning films such as “Revolutionary Road” and “Captain Fantastic.” However, her outstanding performance stole the show, demonstrating that she was destined for leading roles.

The achievement of WandaVision significantly boosted Kathryn Hahn’s selection for Tiny Beautiful Things, earning her a third Emmy nomination, and importantly, a first as a leading actress. Moreover, this acclaimed series paved the path directly for the spin-off where Agatha takes the spotlight.

She remembers expressing, during an interview, “I owe you an immense debt of gratitude for serving as the ideal mentor in navigating this new realm,” addressing ‘Lizzie’. “From her, I gained such valuable insights.

Hahn went on to say: “Her elegance, dedication, and devotion make her truly exceptional. She’s an extraordinary individual and artist. I’m eternally thankful for sharing my initial Marvel journey with her.

Agatha All Along functions as a follow-up, in a sense, to both WandaVision and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. In this story, the protagonist Agatha is stuck in her suburban persona but gains moments of understanding after it seems that the Scarlet Witch has perished.

Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

Soon afterward, she embarks on an extraordinary journey along the enigmatic Witches’ Path accompanied by a hastily formed group of witches – including an unnamed teenage character portrayed by Joe Locke from Heartstopper – in an attempt to rejuvenate her exhausted powers. As Hahn explains, “power” is the core concept that underpins Agatha All Along, much like how grief was central to WandaVision.

She clarifies that the topic encompasses both discovering one’s personal strength as well as understanding how and where power is present, whether that power is constructive or destructive, and how individuals gain or hold onto it – be it consciously, unintentionally, or even unwittingly.

One criticism often leveled at the Marvel Cinematic Universe is its portrayal of villains, many of which lack depth and quickly meet their end. However, there are a few standouts who buck this trend: Loki, played by Tom Hiddleston, and Thanos, portrayed by Josh Brolin, who have both been exceptionally well-developed characters.

Although he had a questionable past, his latest Disney Plus series has given him some redemption. Fans might speculate if Agatha will transition from villain to hero or anti-hero. However, it seems unlikely based on Hahn’s recent statements.

Inquired about the primary antagonist in Agatha All Along, and since this hasn’t been revealed yet up to episode 4, the lead actress subtly hinted that “the truth will be unveiled”, while confirming that her character is definitely not a good person, as she’s “definitely a bad apple… always.

Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

In a refreshingly similar manner to WandaVision, the witch maintains her mischievous humor and penchant for theatricality. Fans will recall her grand unveiling as the series’ less-than-subtle antagonist during an infectiously popular musical interlude that embodied all the kitsch charm it could muster.

In Agatha All Along, the music continues to play a significant role, with original composer Christophe Beck, as well as songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, who created the catchy sitcom tunes for WandaVision, still contributing to the soundtrack.

In this scenario, their job involves composing several unique spells that will be presented musically, rather than the usual Latin declarations found in supernatural tales. It’s worth noting that Hahn confirms there are also some incantations in Latin, which she believes justifies her decision to study Latin at high school.

What makes Agatha stand out? Her unique sense of humor, her ability to transform, her stage-like presence, and the musical aspect, as I believe it complements her character’s grandeur and performance. The music in this context is utilized distinctly compared to WandaVision, yet it remains crucial to the narrative.

It’s a sad reflection on the state of fandom that whenever I see a show doing anything out of the ordinary for its type – e.g. a Marvel series with musical numbers – my mind immediately flashes to the potential trolling and review-bombing that could ensue.

Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

Due to its diverse cast and crew, Agatha All Along has become a focus for prejudice, discrimination based on race, and intolerance towards homosexuality; these very same biases which have crippled another Disney Plus series, The Acolyte, in recent times.

Hahn expresses great pride in the cultural landscape portrayed in this series, which embraces and normalizes various aspects of queerness, as well as women from different age groups and racial backgrounds. He finds the diversity to be commendable, and he’s particularly proud that it’s a woman-led and queer-led production, which he feels is fitting.

Additionally, I’m aware that some individuals might find themselves in a rut. My hope for them is that by witnessing more of these captivating and energetic programs – which they may believe are the sole type available – they’ll begin to challenge such limiting thoughts.

Hahn continues by complimenting the “extraordinarily skilled performers” making up Agatha’s coven, mainly witches who harbor intense contempt towards her – alongside an eager admirer.

Patti LuPone is not only a legendary figure but also a divine performer who excels as part of an ensemble. She’s both hilarious and gracious. Joe Locke, whom I’ve learned so much from and consider very special, is destined for great things – that much is clear to me.

Kathryn Hahn on Agatha All Along’s “queerness” and her “wish” for online trolls

Despite having worked on the same project, Parks and Recreation, with Aubrey Plaza previously, Hahn acknowledges that they never appeared in a scene together. Consequently, Agatha All Along represents an “unanticipated” or “surprising” first significant collaboration for them both.

She went on to say, ‘I adored our moments together.’ Then there’s Sasheer Zamata, like a quiet comedian, rarely speaking but when she did, it was pure comedy gold. And Ali Ahn, who is not only a formidable actress but also incredibly gifted and talented.

Hahn remarked: “It felt like I was among an exceptional group of individuals, almost like a gathering of skilled players. Despite Agatha’s difficulty socializing with others, I couldn’t have pulled it off without their help.

Regarding where things might go with Agatha Harkness, it appears her story isn’t wrapping up just yet, as hints about links to a larger Marvel puzzle are being dropped by Hahn. However, these connections have become progressively harder to decipher in more recent times.

She assured us, “I believe every part of it is connected to the bigger Marvel Cinematic Universe scheme. You’ll find hints or ‘Easter eggs’ that will likely be revealed over time… Just like all great Marvel productions, there are definitely links. They might not always be obvious, but they’re deeply rooted in the storyline.

Beginning on Thursday, the 16th of September, you can stream “Agatha All Along” on Disney Plus! Fresh episodes will be released weekly. For a limited time only, enjoy three months of Disney Plus for an unbeatable price of £1.99 per month!

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2024-09-18 17:05