The Marvel Cinematic Universe may be known for its sprawling storylines and crossover surprises, but even long-time fans weren’t expecting this quirky tease. In a recent interview, director Matt Shakman was asked whether the mystical Agatha Harkness might ever become the babysitter to none other than Franklin Richards, the cosmic-powered son of Reed Richards and Sue Storm.
His answer? A classic Marvel-style dodge, wrapped in a wink.
“Never say never… I’m not sure about her future, we’ll see,” Shakman said, instantly sparking buzz across Marvel fandom.
While the comment was delivered in a lighthearted tone, it has fans spinning theories faster than you can say “Hex magic.” Could the Agatha Harkness and Franklin Richards MCU connection actually be on the horizon?
Agatha Harkness: The Witch Who Won’t Stay Gone
Agatha Harkness, played by Kathryn Hahn, was a breakout character in WandaVision, the first Disney+ series in the MCU’s Phase 4. Her reveal in the hit show’s twist-filled finale — punctuated by the viral “Agatha All Along” song — set her up as both a villain and a fan favorite.
Since then, Marvel has confirmed her return in the upcoming Disney+ series, Agatha All Along, slated for release in late 2025. The series is expected to dive into Agatha’s origins, her ties to witchcraft in the MCU, and potentially set her up for future appearances.
With Marvel weaving magic and multiverse threads more tightly than ever, Agatha remains a powerful wildcard character. Shakman’s response hints that she could resurface in unexpected ways — possibly even as part of the Fantastic Four’s family dynamic.
Who Is Franklin Richards?
For those less familiar with the comic side of things, Franklin Richards is no ordinary child. He is the son of Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) and Sue Storm (Invisible Woman) — two founding members of the Fantastic Four. But Franklin isn’t just any superhero kid. In Marvel Comics, he’s one of the most powerful mutants to ever exist, capable of warping reality, creating universes, and standing toe-to-toe with cosmic forces like Galactus.
Though he hasn’t appeared in the MCU yet, Franklin’s presence would mark a significant shift — opening the door to bold new directions in Marvel storytelling. And who better to guide (or babysit) such a powerful child than a centuries-old witch like Agatha Harkness?
Comics Connection: Agatha Was Franklin’s Babysitter
Interestingly, Shakman’s coy response isn’t just a joke — it’s rooted in Marvel Comics canon. In the 1970s and ’80s, Agatha Harkness was actually hired by the Fantastic Four to care for young Franklin Richards. She not only watched over him, but also protected him from demonic forces and taught Sue Storm magical techniques.
This long-running comic relationship gives serious weight to the fan speculation — and may indicate that Marvel Studios is once again drawing inspiration from deep cuts in its comic library.
Matt Shakman’s Role in the MCU
Matt Shakman has quickly become one of Marvel’s most trusted creative voices. After directing all nine episodes of WandaVision, he’s now helming the highly anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, scheduled for May 2, 2026. That means he’s not only responsible for Agatha’s on-screen debut, but also for bringing Franklin’s parents into the MCU fold.
If anyone is poised to connect those worlds — it’s him.
His comment may seem casual on the surface, but MCU fans know better. Marvel creatives rarely speak without intention, and “Never say never” is the kind of phrase that tends to signal future plans.
Could Agatha Be Part of the Fantastic Four’s Future?
The idea of Agatha Harkness becoming Franklin Richards’ mentor, guardian, or even adversary fits perfectly within the MCU’s new direction. With multiversal chaos, magical threats, and mutant emergence on the table, a character like Franklin needs someone uniquely suited to handle all of it — and Agatha fits the bill.
Marvel could take a dramatic or even comedic approach to this pairing. Picture a sarcastic, dark-witted witch navigating the challenges of babysitting a cosmic-level child while his genius parents tackle interdimensional threats. That sounds exactly like the kind of bold, genre-blending storytelling Marvel is leaning into post-Multiverse Saga.
Final Thoughts: Never Say Never in the MCU
Shakman’s teasing comment may have been a small moment, but it offers a glimpse into the bigger puzzle Marvel Studios is assembling. With Agatha All Along and Fantastic Four both arriving within the next year and a half, the timing feels just right to bring Agatha Harkness and Franklin Richards into a shared story.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the line between fan theory and reality is often thin — and “never say never” usually means just wait and see.
