Elizabeth Olsen Reflects on Marvel Fans Referring to Her as ‘Mother’ and Shares Her Mixed Feelings
Elizabeth Olsen Shares Her Mixed Feelings on MCU Fans Referring to Her as ‘Mother’
Elizabeth Olsen, known for her portrayal of Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), finds herself in a state of conflict over the nickname that fans have bestowed upon her—’mother.’ Throughout Wanda’s complex journey in the MCU, Olsen has brought the character to life, showcasing her transformation from a team-up with a robot to becoming an Avenger, falling in love with another robot, and eventually succumbing to the dark influences of the Darkhold.
Despite the intricate and evolving nature of Wanda’s character, she has remained a fan-favorite, with many MCU enthusiasts eagerly speculating about her future appearances, even after her apparent demise in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, where she met her end atop Mount Wungadore.
During the premiere of her HBO Max series Love and Death, Olsen addressed the moniker ‘Mother’ that has gained popularity among the MCU fanbase on the internet. The term is associated with certain subsets of the queer community, but the actress herself expressed her perplexity, stating, “I don’t get it.”
“I’m conflicted. I’ve heard that it’s a term of endearment. It makes me feel like the internet is filled with 12-year-olds. I’m not trying to offend people, but I don’t get it. And I’m not that old!”
Olsen also spoke to Entertainment Tonight where she further remarked on her confusion over this particular honorific:
“I really don’t get it. My friends have tried to explain to me that it’s, like, a good thing? I don’t know.”
She was, however, sure to point out that “mothers are great,” even though calling her as such makes her “feel old:”
“Like, mothers are great, I guess, but I don’t know. It makes me feel old because I think the people that are saying it must be young? Like, I’m not sure how I feel about it.”
Why the Internet Is Calling Elizabeth Olsen ‘Mother’
The Internet’s Affectionate Nickname for Elizabeth Olsen: “Mother”
The online community has embraced the habit of referring to Elizabeth Olsen as “mother,” leaving many wondering about the origins of this endearing moniker. Despite not having any children in real life, Olsen has portrayed motherly roles in various projects, such as Wanda Maximoff in WandaVision (mother to Billy and Tommy Maximoff) and her role in 2014’s Godzilla. Her unwavering determination to reclaim her children has even served as her primary motivation in Multiverse of Madness.
In the vast realm of internet culture, the term “mother” finds its roots in the LGBTQ+ underground subculture, specifically the ballroom scene. Within this niche community, individuals are often designated as mothers as a gesture of deep respect.
When considering the context, “mother” is a relatively harmless nickname. It is worth mentioning that internet users have also bestowed the title of “Internet’s daddy” upon Pedro Pascal, albeit for different reasons.
Perhaps Elizabeth Olsen simply exudes a maternal aura. She comes across as a kind-hearted individual who isn’t afraid to speak up against wrongdoing, even addressing issues with MCU writers. Her overall wholesome demeanor adds to this perception.
Ultimately, the internet has witnessed stranger phenomena. If a member of Gen Z chooses to call Elizabeth Olsen “mother,” then let them do so, even if it perplexes the actress.
While Wanda Maximoff’s return to the MCU is yet to be officially confirmed, the impending threat of Kang the Conqueror looms, demanding the Avengers to gather all the assistance they can muster.
Covering superheroes, anything dark, horror, and more! Lead writer for Fan Fest
