The third season of What If…? offers a mix of emotions for Marvel fans. Released as a festive treat for enthusiasts, it also represents the series’ conclusion. The decision to end the show is unexpected, especially given the widespread appeal of its comic and television adaptations.

The second episode, titled What If … Agatha Went to Hollywood?, reimagines Kathryn Hahn’s Agatha in a strikingly different role than in WandaVision.

While still on a quest for power, her methods switches away from solely relying on magic. This time, she crosses paths with Arishem the Judge, culminating in a cosmic, visually stunning finale.

The Intricate Plan Behind Agatha’s Actions

Jac Schaeffer, the mind behind Agatha All Along, sheds light on the distinct ending and the layered portrayal of Agatha’s character.

In her many Marvel Cinematic Universe appearances, Agatha consistently seeks power. From draining witches to pursuing the Darkhold, she has explored countless avenues.

In this alternate storyline, she adopts a new identity as a hopeful actor in Hollywood, starring in a film financed by Howard Stark. With an elaborate production setup across Los Angeles, complete with mystical runes, Howard unknowingly becomes part of her plans.

Agatha uses the sets as tools for an occult ritual, leveraging them to harness the energy of the Celestial seed introduced in the Eternals. This energy, as fans recall, was pivotal in the Emergence—a catastrophic event that nearly destroyed Earth.

A Musical Confrontation With Kingo

Agatha, driven by her ambition to become a galactic witch, eliminates most of the Eternals, sparing only Kumail Nanjiani’s Kingo. Using Howard’s influence, she casts Kingo as her co-star, leading to a vibrant musical scene blending Bollywood flair with Agatha’s dance routines.

During their performance, Kingo confronts her, exposing her use of the Eternals’ powers. While the scene appears theatrical to onlookers, their battle reveals Agatha’s growing ego and her determination to achieve godlike status.

Exploring Kingo’s Emotional Depth

Despite her power-hungry demeanor, Agatha reveals a softer side when she negotiates with Kingo. Acknowledging humanity’s flaws, she criticizes the Celestials’ cruel lack of empathy in their grand designs.

Her candidness resonates with Kingo, who, after years among humans, feels a deep attachment to Earth. However, their bond is disrupted when Arishem intervenes, determined to exact punishment.

The Griffith Observatory Showdown

With the stage set for a dramatic climax, Agatha taps into the energy at the Griffith Observatory, absorbing Kingo’s power to transform into a formidable Celestial-witch hybrid.

Howard captures the entire spectacle on camera, fulfilling his vision of groundbreaking footage. Despite the chaos, Kingo supports Agatha’s efforts to protect Earth, embracing his dual roles as an alien and a Hollywood star.

A Cosmic Clash and Agatha’s Inner Conflict

Arishem’s arrival triggers a climactic battle. Although Agatha struggles with precision in wielding Tiamut’s power, she cleverly activates a ritual to trap and defeat Arishem.

However, her victory is overshadowed by her growing ambition, as she demands submission from those around her. Kingo intervenes, appealing to her humanity and suggesting redemption through the magic of cinema.

Agatha’s Journey Toward Redemption

Kingo convinces Agatha to channel her talents into creating stories that inspire audiences worldwide. Drawing parallels to her past struggles and moments of heroism, Agatha embraces the idea of a second chance.

The season’s conclusion finds her and Kingo basking in fame, symbolizing her transformation into a figure capable of both power and compassion.

The Threat of Celestial Revenge

As the freed Eternals warn of looming retaliation from other Celestials, Agatha’s confident demeanor shines through. She welcomes the challenge, hinting at future battles.

The series closes with Uatu the Watcher hinting at unresolved conflicts, leaving fans to imagine Agatha teaming up with iconic mages like Doctor Strange and Wanda Maximoff. Unfortunately, with the show ending, these scenarios remain a dream for MCU enthusiasts.

What If…? continues to release episodes daily on Disney+ through December 29, 2024.