After the emotional journey of Wanda Maximoff, aka Scarlet Witch, in the Disney+ series WandaVision, fans were eager to see how her character would develop in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. However, the show took a major turn, portraying her as a villain, a decision that left many viewers divided.

Recent revelations from former X-Men ’97 executive producer Beau DeMayo suggest that Scarlet Witch was originally intended to play a very different role in the sequel, one that could have profoundly changed her trajectory in the MCU..

A Heroic Turn for Scarlet Witch

According to DeMayo, the initial concept for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness painted Wanda Maximoff as a hero rather than the antagonist she ultimately became. This shift in characterization raises intriguing questions about the creative direction of the MCU and the potential impact on Wanda’s narrative arc.

Originally, the plan was for Scarlet Witch to assist Doctor Strange in combating the villain Nightmare, a character steeped in mystique and terror within the Marvel lore. Instead of hunting America Chavez, a young hero with the ability to traverse the multiverse, Wanda would have taken on the role of a mentor, training her to harness her powers for good.

This alternate storyline aligns more closely with the themes explored in WandaVision, where Wanda grappled with her grief and the consequences of her powers. The decision to pivot from a heroic portrayal to a villainous one in Doctor Strange 2 not only contradicted the emotional depth established in the series but also alienated a segment of the fanbase that resonated with her struggles.

The Consequences of a Villainous Turn

As it stands, Wanda’s arc in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness culminated in her tragic death, a sacrifice made to obliterate all versions of the Darkhold across the multiverse. This narrative choice has been met with mixed reactions, particularly regarding its alignment with Wanda’s character development.

If the original storyline had been retained, Wanda’s fate could have been vastly different. Rather than succumbing to darkness, she might have emerged as a beacon of hope, embodying the very essence of a hero.

The implications of this alternate plot extend beyond Wanda herself. The dynamics between characters could have shifted significantly. For instance, a nurturing relationship between Wanda and America Chavez would have offered a fresh perspective on mentorship, showcasing Wanda’s capacity for love and growth rather than her descent into chaos. Such a relationship could have provided a counterbalance to Wanda’s grief over losing her children, allowing her to explore her emotions in a healthier way.

A Missed Opportunity for Character Exploration

The original vision for Doctor Strange 2 would have allowed for a deeper exploration of Wanda’s trauma and her journey toward healing. Instead of portraying her as a murderous force, the filmmakers could have delved into her internal struggles, examining the complexities of motherhood, loss, and redemption. This nuanced approach would have provided a more satisfying resolution to her character arc, one that resonated with the audience’s emotional investment in Wanda’s story.

Moreover, the opportunity to see Wanda interact with multiverse variants of her children could have added layers to her character. Imagining Wanda finding solace in alternate realities, where she could reunite with her kids, would have offered a cathartic experience for both the character and the audience. This exploration of multiversal possibilities could have enriched the narrative, making Wanda’s journey more relatable and poignant.

The Impact on the MCU Landscape

The decision to portray Wanda as a villain in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness has sparked discussions about the future of the MCU. With Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch reportedly set to return in the upcoming Vision series, fans are left wondering how her character will be reconciled with the events of the sequel. Will the MCU explore the consequences of her actions, or will it take a different approach, perhaps revisiting the original heroic narrative that DeMayo alluded to?

The potential for redemption in Wanda’s story is vast. If handled thoughtfully, her return could serve as an opportunity to address the fallout from her villainous turn while also allowing her to reclaim her identity as a hero. The narrative could focus on her journey toward forgiveness, not only from others but also from herself. This exploration could resonate deeply with audiences, offering a compelling narrative of resilience and redemption.

A Tale of What Could Have Been

As fans reflect on the evolution of Scarlet Witch within the MCU, the revelations regarding her original role in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness prompt a reevaluation of the choices made by the filmmakers. The contrast between the intended storyline and the final product highlights the complexities of character development in a franchise that continues to push boundaries.

Wanda Maximoff’s journey is emblematic of the struggles many face in grappling with grief, identity, and the desire for redemption. The untold story of her heroic potential in Doctor Strange 2 serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on audiences.

As the MCU moves forward, there lies an opportunity to revisit and reshape Wanda’s narrative, allowing her to emerge not just as a powerful sorceress but as a symbol of hope and resilience.

In the end, the story of Scarlet Witch is far from over. The echoes of what could have been linger in the hearts of fans, igniting anticipation for her next chapter in the ever-expanding tapestry of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.