From an Oscar Nominee to a Teen Idol: The Wild List of Actors Who Almost Played Wanda Maximoff

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, is one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Portrayed by Elizabeth Olsen, the character has evolved from a supporting role in Avengers: Age of Ultron to a central figure in WandaVision and the multiverse saga. Olsen’s nuanced performance has garnered critical acclaim, making it hard to imagine anyone else in the role.

However, as with many major Hollywood castings, the journey to find the perfect Scarlet Witch involved considering other actors—some of whom are surprising. Here’s a look at the fascinating list of stars who almost donned Wanda’s signature red crown.

1. Saoirse Ronan

Before Elizabeth Olsen secured the role, Oscar-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan was reportedly on Marvel’s radar. Known for her performances in Atonement, Lady Bird, and Little Women, Ronan was an early favorite. Her acting range and ethereal quality made her a strong contender for Wanda’s complexity.

While Ronan ultimately didn’t join the MCU, her talent and acclaim suggest she could have delivered a captivating performance. However, her schedule and preference for indie and character-driven projects might have played a role in her decision to steer clear of blockbuster franchises.

2. Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan, a teen idol of the early 2000s, also expressed interest in playing Wanda Maximoff. While this might seem unexpected, Lohan was once a Hollywood powerhouse, known for hits like Mean Girls and Freaky Friday.

In recent interviews, Lohan hinted at wanting to revitalize her career by joining a major franchise like Marvel. While she didn’t make it to the casting shortlist for Wanda, the thought of her taking on such a role highlights the unpredictable paths casting decisions can take.

3. Amanda Seyfried

Amanda Seyfried, beloved for her performances in Mamma Mia! and Les Misérables, reportedly turned down an opportunity to join the MCU. Seyfried has been candid about her hesitations regarding big franchise roles, particularly those involving heavy CGI and physical demands.

Had Seyfried been cast, her warmth and charisma might have brought a slightly different energy to Wanda. However, her decision not to take the role paved the way for Olsen, who has since made the character her own.

4. Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Mary Elizabeth Winstead, known for her roles in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and Birds of Prey, was another name rumored to be in contention for Wanda Maximoff. With her experience in action-packed films and her ability to convey depth and vulnerability, Winstead would have been a strong choice.

Interestingly, Winstead eventually joined another corner of the Disney empire, playing Hera Syndulla in the Star Wars series Ahsoka.

5. Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley, star of The Fault in Our Stars and Divergent, was also reportedly considered for the role of Wanda. At the time, Woodley was a rising star in Hollywood, known for her performances in young adult adaptations and dramatic roles.

Woodley’s ability to portray emotional complexity could have suited Wanda’s evolution from a conflicted hero to a tragic antihero. However, her busy schedule with other franchise commitments likely ruled her out.

6. Emmy Rossum

Emmy Rossum, best known for her work on Shameless and her musical talent in The Phantom of the Opera, was another actor rumored to be under consideration. Rossum’s dramatic chops and magnetic presence might have brought a unique intensity to Wanda’s journey.

Why Elizabeth Olsen Was Perfect for Wanda

While many talented actors were considered, Elizabeth Olsen’s casting has proven to be a masterstroke. Her ability to portray Wanda’s emotional depth, from her grief-stricken moments in WandaVision to her descent into darkness in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, has earned her widespread acclaim.

Olsen’s performance balances vulnerability and power, making Wanda one of the MCU’s most compelling characters. Her background in indie films, combined with her willingness to dive into complex emotions, set her apart in a role that demands both subtlety and spectacle.

The Legacy of Wanda Maximoff

Casting decisions often shape the legacy of a character, and Olsen’s Wanda has become a cultural touchstone. Yet, reflecting on the “what-ifs” of casting highlights how many actors could have brought different interpretations to the role. Each name on this list brings a unique set of qualities, but it’s a testament to Marvel’s casting process that they landed on the perfect Scarlet Witch.

As fans continue to follow Wanda’s story in the MCU, it’s fascinating to imagine how these alternate castings might have reshaped the character—and the franchise as a whole.