In 2022, Marvel Studios heralded the forthcoming release of “The Marvel Cinematic Universe: An Official Timeline.” This book was designed to encapsulate the grand narrative of the MCU since its beginning. Yet, an unforeseen change to this eagerly anticipated project has sparked a whirlwind of fan theories. Notably, Elizabeth Olsen’s character, Scarlet Witch, has been omitted from the book’s cover.
As soon as the news about this modification went viral, conjecture about the Scarlet Witch’s absence from the covers became rampant. Some believe it’s due to the character’s prolonged hiatus from the MCU. Others point to Olsen’s prior critiques of the franchise.
Reflecting on Elizabeth Olsen’s Candid MCU Remarks
Earlier in the year, during a media interview, Olsen candidly spoke about her role as Wanda Maximoff, or Scarlet Witch, and the alternative career paths she might have taken. She expressed regret for missing out on pivotal roles due to her commitments with Marvel Studios.
“The stability of the job was there, but I felt I was missing out on roles that resonated more with my essence. As time went on, those roles became distant memories.”
In a notable revelation, Olsen mentioned an offer in 2015 to feature in “The Lobster,” a film by Yorgoos Lanthimo that won the Cannes Jury Prize. Her commitment to Marvel prevented her from accepting this opportunity.
Does Olsen’s criticism have anything to do with her character’s absence on the 2023 MCU Timeline book cover? The jury’s still out as there’s no official word on this yet. But, there’s another theory that’s generating buzz.
Scarlet Witch’s Omission: A Result of Inactivity in the MCU?
Originally, the MCU Timeline book was set to launch in late 2022. It’s now slated for a release on October 24, 2023. Recently, publisher Penguin Random House showcased the new cover, which surprisingly excluded the Scarlet Witch.
Previously, Scarlet Witch graced the cover, but the revised version spotlights Tom Hiddleston’s Loki and Sophia Di Martino’s Sylvie. Some argue this change is due to Scarlet Witch’s presumed demise in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Others think it’s tied to the upcoming season of the “Loki” series premiering on October 6.
Without an official rationale for this change, fans are left to their own devices, speculating on Scarlet Witch’s conspicuous absence. Nevertheless, the fanbase remains on tenterhooks, eagerly anticipating the book’s debut on October 24, 2023.
Regardless of the reasons behind the cover alteration, the intrigue surrounding the MCU and its evolving storyline remains undiminished. The fervour and dedication of its fanbase are a testament to the franchise’s enduring appeal. As debates and theories continue to swirl, one thing is certain: “The Marvel Cinematic Universe: An Official Timeline” is set to be a must-have addition to the collection of every MCU enthusiast.
