The latest episode of Agatha All Along was a rollercoaster ride, full of surprises and new revelations. This episode not only expanded on Agatha’s (Kathryn Hahn) complicated backstory but also introduced a shocking turn of events with the unexpected death of Alice Wu-Gulliver (Ali Ahn).
Perhaps most intriguing was the episode’s confirmation of the identity of Joe Locke’s character, known as “The Teen.”
Although the episode does not provide a complete confirmation, the clues presented strongly suggest who he truly is. To the delight of many Marvel fans, this character has a significant connection to a major figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
‘Agatha All Along’ Nearly Confirms the Teen Is Wiccan, Also Known as Billy Maximoff
After the surprising events of this episode, Agatha faces her mother and deals with the consequences of Alice losing her lifeforce. During a tense moment, The Teen confronts Agatha about her questionable actions.
Agatha, who seems to finally recognize the Teen’s identity despite a hex that prevents him from revealing his name, laughs at him. She tells him he is very much like his mother, hinting at his true identity.
In a pivotal scene, Billy, for the first time, uses his magic. He is surrounded by a blue aura that traps Agatha, Jennifer (Sasheer Zamata), and Lilia (Patti LuPone) in a mysterious goo. This moment is significant because it leads to the Teen wearing a silver crown on his head, which all but confirms that he is Billy Maximoff, the magical superhero known as Wiccan.
Billy Maximoff’s journey began when he was introduced in WandaVision, portrayed by Julian Hilliard. In that series, he and his twin brother Tommy (Jett Klyne) were created from Wanda’s magic during her attempts to cope with her grief.
Wanda’s trauma and loss transformed the town of Westview into a personal sitcom, allowing her to live out a perfect family life.
However, when Wanda eventually broke her spell, her children seemed to disappear from existence. Yet, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness revealed that Billy and Tommy exist in other universes, raising the question of their potential return.
Still from Agatha All Along (Credit: Disney+)
In the comics, Billy’s superhero persona, Wiccan, is a powerful young hero who has inherited magical powers from his mother. He has a rich history, including being absorbed by the notorious character Mephisto, only to be reincarnated later.
This resurrection in the comics serves as a basis for understanding how Billy could still be alive in the MCU after Wanda undid her spell. Wiccan is notable for his immense power, often surpassing that of his mother, and has earned a reputation as one of the strongest young heroes in the Marvel universe.
Billy’s Significance in the Marvel Comics
Wiccan is not just another character in the Marvel Comics universe; he is a vital figure who has broken ground in several ways. His character represents one of the earliest and most prominent same-sex couples in Marvel Comics history, particularly through his relationship with Hulkling.
This aspect of his identity is significant as it reflects broader themes of acceptance and representation in the comic book world. As the MCU increasingly embraces diversity, characters like Billy Maximoff pave the way for more inclusive storytelling.
The romantic relationship between Wiccan and Hulkling showcases not only love but also the challenges they face in a world that is often hostile to those who are different. The presence of such characters in popular media is essential, as it allows audiences to see themselves represented in heroic roles.
As the Agatha All Along series continues to unfold, fans are eager to see how Wiccan’s story might intersect with other characters and storylines, especially with the rumored appearance of Hulkling.
How Is Billy Maximoff Still Alive in ‘Agatha All Along’?
While many fans have speculated about the Teen’s identity being Wiccan, several questions remain unanswered. The most pressing question is how Billy is still alive after Wanda undid her spell at the end of WandaVision.
Still from Agatha All Along (Credit: Disney+)
In the comics, the character of Billy has been brought back to life before, often reincarnated as a separate individual while retaining the essence of his original self. This opens up possibilities for the MCU’s portrayal of his character, suggesting that he might exist in a form similar to what we saw in the comics.
Another important question involves the fate of Tommy Maximoff. While Tommy does not have the same depth of storylines in the comics as his brother, the MCU adapted his character in WandaVision by giving him super speed, akin to their uncle Pietro.
With Billy’s return now looking more plausible, many fans speculate that Tommy may also be alive and could make an appearance in future episodes. The connection between the brothers adds layers to the story, as fans hope to see them reunite and show their abilities together.
The return of Billy raises additional questions about Wanda Maximoff’s fate. At the end of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, it appeared that Wanda sacrificed herself, seemingly dying while attempting to destroy the Darkhold. However, the film left her fate somewhat ambiguous, allowing for the possibility of her return.
With the near-confirmation of Billy’s resurrection and Vision (Paul Bettany) slated to return in the upcoming VisionQuest series, the potential for a reunion among the Maximoff family has never seemed more likely. Fans are excited at the prospect of seeing Wanda, Billy, and Vision come together again after their painful separation in WandaVision.
The Future of Billy Maximoff in the MCU
With Billy Maximoff’s character confirmed as the Teen in Agatha All Along, the possibilities for his future in the MCU are endless. The series not only deepens the connection between Billy and Agatha but also sets the stage for showing other dimensions of the Marvel universe.
As Marvel continues to expand its storytelling, Billy’s powers and experiences could play a crucial role in upcoming narratives, especially if they include multiverse elements.
Moreover, the portrayal of a younger superhero like Wiccan brings a fresh perspective to the superhero genre, particularly regarding the challenges faced by young heroes.
Themes of growth, identity, and familial connections are likely to resonate with audiences as they see characters grapple with their powers and responsibilities. Billy’s journey is especially poignant, as he shows the complexities of being both a son and a superhero.
As the story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the dynamics between Agatha, Billy, and other characters develop. Agatha’s history is rich with conflicts, and her relationship with the Maximoff family adds a layer of complexity. Will she serve as a mentor to Billy, or will old grudges resurface? The potential for conflict and collaboration between characters is a driving force behind the excitement surrounding the series.
Final Thoughts: A Hopeful Reunion for the Maximoff Family
The latest developments in Agatha All Along offer a view of hope for the Maximoff family. With the return of Billy and the possibility of Tommy’s existence, fans are eager to see how their stories will interweave with Wanda and Vision’s in the broader MCU. The emotional weight of their reunions, along with the scheme of their magical powers, promises to create compelling narratives for audiences.
Still from Agatha All Along (Credit: Disney+)
As the Marvel universe continues to grow and evolve, characters like Wiccan and Hulkling stand as testaments to the importance of representation and diversity. Their love story, along with the broader implications of family, loss, and identity, resonates with many fans and adds depth to the superhero genre.
Agatha All Along is available to stream on Disney+, and fans are encouraged to catch up on the series to experience the unfolding drama and surprises that await. As each episode reveals new layers to the story, viewers remain on the edge of their seats, eager to discover what lies ahead for their beloved characters.
Lara Croft is one of the most famous video game characters, standing alongside legends like Mario, Master Chief, Sonic, and Link. She has been a central figure in video games since her debut in 1996.
Lara is a bold, adventurous archaeologist who has traveled the world in search of ancient artifacts and lost civilizations. Her role as the lead in the Tomb Raider franchise has kept her in the spotlight for nearly three decades, and her character has only become more iconic with time.
The Tomb Raider series took a fresh turn in 2013 with a reboot, simply titled Tomb Raider, which shows Lara’s early days and beginnings.
This reboot was well-received for its new take on her story, showing her growth as a character. Two sequels followed, Rise of the Tomb Raider in 2015 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider in 2018, and together these games formed what is now known as the “Survivor Trilogy.”
Fans were also excited to hear about the announcement of an animated series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, which was first introduced in 2021. This new series, voiced by actress Hayley Atwell, continues Lara’s journey from where the Survivor Trilogy left off. It offers fans an opportunity to stay connected to the character they love while awaiting future games.
What Is ‘Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft’ About?
The animated series Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft begins shortly after the events of Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Lara is still struggling with nightmares about the loss of her close friends, including her mentor Conrad Roth, voiced by Nolan North.
Though Lara is haunted by these memories, she is not one to sit idle. She finds herself restless, especially as her friend Jonah, voiced by Earl Baylon, is preparing for his wedding. Lara longs for adventure once again.
Her wish for excitement is granted when a mysterious artifact is stolen from her home. The thief, Charles Devereaux, voiced by Richard Armitage, has a surprising connection to both Conrad Roth and Lara’s father.
This stolen object, known as a Peril Stone, is tied to ancient Chinese legends and holds dangerous supernatural powers. Lara knows that the artifact could lead to disaster if it falls into the wrong hands. Determined to stop this threat, Lara and Jonah head to China to retrieve the stolen item and uncover its secrets.
Throughout the series, Lara grows from the person we saw in the last three games to the skilled and experienced adventurer who made her a legend. The show takes viewers on a thrilling journey, showing her transformation and determination to face new challenges.
A Rough Start, But a Thrilling Journey
The series starts with a dream sequence that reflects Lara’s emotional struggles, but much of the first episode focuses on her life in England. While it sets the stage for what comes next, it takes a little time for the action to pick up.
Still from Tomb Raider The Legend of Lara Croft (Credit: Netflix)
Fans of the Tomb Raider franchise often enjoy seeing Lara thrown into exciting new adventures, so the slow pace in the beginning may feel different from the usual fast-paced tone of the games.
However, once the story gets moving, the action and excitement return in full force. After the first episode, the series picks up speed and delivers an engaging adventure for the rest of its seven episodes.
One advantage of the animated format is that it allows the creators to take Lara and her team to various exotic locations without the limitations of a live-action production. This means that while the first episode takes place mostly in Lara’s mansion, the rest of the series brings us to far more exciting settings, including mysterious tombs and dense rainforests.
Although the series acts as a prologue for the next Tomb Raider video game, it doesn’t lower the stakes of Lara’s mission. The scope of The Legend of Lara Croft feels grand, and the show gives us a wide range of action-packed scenes while still showing Lara’s emotional depth.
The series not only brings us on a journey filled with adventure but also goes deeper into Lara’s past, showing us more about what motivates her and what makes her the character we know today.
Stunning Animation and New Characters
While the series was first announced as a “Netflix Anime,” the animation was actually created by a studio based in Texas. The style of the show is influenced by Japanese art, but it doesn’t fully adopt the traditional anime aesthetic.
The animation in The Legend of Lara Croft feels smooth and visually appealing, and it perfectly captures the unique locations Lara and her companions visit throughout the series. The series avoids unnecessary filler content, focusing instead on telling an exciting and fast-paced story.
New characters are introduced along the way, including a reimagined version of Zip, voiced by Allen Maldonado, who was a long-time ally of Lara in previous Tomb Raider games. Another significant character is Camilla Roth, voiced by Zoe Boyle, who plays Lara’s estranged childhood best friend.
Their relationship adds emotional depth to the series, showing both the friendship and tension between the two women.
The connection between Lara and Camilla feels genuine and adds a meaningful layer to the story, making it one of the standout aspects of the show. The potential for future interactions between these characters is exciting, whether it’s in the next season of the series or in future games.
A Memorable Villain and Strong Performances
One of the best parts of The Legend of Lara Croft is the introduction of a new villain, Charles Devereaux. Unlike many one-dimensional villains, Devereaux is complex and layered.
He presents himself as someone who wants to stop a dangerous cult from ending the world, but it quickly becomes clear that his true intentions are far less noble. Despite his devious plans, there is something charismatic about Devereaux. Richard Armitage gives the character a compelling voice that makes him a memorable addition to Lara’s list of enemies.
Atwell’s portrayal of Lara Croft is also a highlight of the series. Although Camilla Luddington, who voiced Lara in the Survivor Trilogy, did not return for the role, Atwell does an excellent job of capturing Lara’s spirit. Her performance makes the character feel familiar, yet fresh, and never feels out of place.
Bringing the Franchise to New Audiences
Some fans may have preferred a new Tomb Raider video game over a television series, but The Legend of Lara Croft proves that the franchise can successfully move into new forms of storytelling.
Still from Tomb Raider The Legend of Lara Croft (Credit: Netflix)
The animated series captures the adventurous tone and atmosphere that made the games so beloved. It delivers an engaging plot, introduces new characters, and offers plenty of action scenes to keep viewers entertained.
For long-time fans, the series provides everything they love about Tomb Raider: the thrill of scene, the search for powerful artifacts, and, of course, plenty of tomb raiding. The animated series shows that Lara Croft’s story is far from over and that there is much more to look forward to in her future adventures.
