Why Wanda Vision Originally Had 10 Episodes?
In a candid discussion on The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith, Jac Schaeffer confirmed that WandaVision was originally envisioned as a 10-episode series. However, logistical hurdles, budget constraints, and creative refinements led to the merging of two episodes:
“‘WandaVision’ was originally 10 [episodes], then, for logistical, budget, and creative reasons, we combined two episodes.”
This aligns with earlier comments from Matt Shakman on the FatMan Beyond podcast, where he elaborated that collapsing episodes helped improve the show’s pacing, particularly in its real-world and finale segments.
How Did the Episode Merge Impact Wanda Vision’s Finale?
The finale, titled “The Series Finale,” bears the strongest evidence of having been two episodes combined into one. The following cut elements and adjustments support this theory:
A Benedict Cumberbatch appearance as Doctor Strange was reportedly planned, teasing his eventual conflict with Wanda Maximoff in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The cameo was scrapped to maintain the focus on Wanda’s personal journey.
A cut action sequence featured Agatha Harkness’ rabbit, Señor Scratchy, revealing its true demonic form. This would have added an intriguing supernatural element, aligning with the show’s magical themes.
Ralph Bohner’s Alternate Ending
Evan Peters’ Quicksilver misdirect nearly had a different conclusion involving Randall Park’s Jimmy Woo, which never made it past the script stage.
The rushed pacing of Episode 9 drew criticism, particularly as it wrapped up numerous plotlines. Spreading the content across two episodes could have allowed for deeper character moments and more satisfying resolutions.
Despite losing its 10th episode, Wanda Vision remains one of Marvel Studios’ most critically acclaimed Disney+ projects, praised for its genre-bending storytelling and emotional depth. Fans’ mixed feelings about the finale’s pacing have done little to diminish the show’s overall impact, but the missing content has left many wondering what could have been.
What to Expect from Agatha All Along
As Jac Schaeffer returns to helm Agatha All Along, she aims to replicate the “real estate” of Wanda Vision, with the series confirmed to feature nine episodes. This could mean a similarly intricate narrative structure, ensuring fans of the original series have plenty to look forward to.
While WandaVision’s Episode 10 may never see the light of day, its legacy continues to shape the MCU, with lingering questions fueling anticipation for the upcoming Agatha All Along series.
