Each episode of Agatha All Along has sparked discussions, and the latest installment, "Death’s Hand in Mind," was no different. The episode featured significant developments leading into an anticipated finale. Jac Schaeffer, the creator, shared insights in an interview with Variety, which included details and spoilers.
Recent leaks and theories have been confirmed: Rio, Agatha’s companion portrayed by Aubrey Plaza, is indeed Lady Death. Schaeffer explained that the inclusion of this character stemmed from a desire for a "pursuant character" pursuing Agatha and her associates. Initially, this character was envisioned as the Debt Collector, targeting witches for "unpaid debts of witchcraft." However, the creative direction shifted towards Death, as the team found the concept compelling. Schaeffer commented on the decision, saying, "We were just like, ‘Who is the perfect ex-lover of Agatha Harkness?’ It was just so obviously Lady Death. It felt so right.”
Additionally, the episode focused on the divination witch Lilia, played by Patti Lupone, who has been living her life out of chronological order. Schaeffer revealed that while Lilia was always intended to be a fortune teller, the idea of a non-linear storyline emerged later in the writing process. To tackle this challenge, Schaeffer enlisted the help of WandaVision writer Cam Squires and writers’ assistant Gia King. They created a linear timeline of the episode’s events to assist both the team and Lupone in understanding the character’s journey and motivations.
Regarding Lupone’s involvement, Schaeffer noted that the episode had to be "spectacular" following her casting. Lupone concentrated on the emotional depth and evolution of her character, with Schaeffer emphasizing the constancy of Lilia. Several monologues underwent adjustments before filming, but Lupone preferred to perform the original script. Schaeffer recounted Lupone’s desire to retain the original lines, stating, "And bless her, I’m so glad she said all the things."
The episode concluded with Lilia’s self-sacrifice to protect others from the Salem Seven, adding to the series’ ongoing exploration of death within Agatha’s circle. Schaeffer described the show as being centered around death and expressed interest in how comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe have historically addressed the topic. She stated, "Death is permanent, and with this show, we wanted to pay respect to that,” expressing the intention to engage in a more earnest and serious conversation about death compared to typical superhero narratives.
The two-part finale of Agatha All Along is scheduled to premiere on Disney+ on Wednesday, October 30. Schaeffer’s full interview with Variety provides additional insights into the show’s development.
