Elizabeth Olsen says that Marvel movies are ‘not really the art I consume’

Elizabeth Olsen’s portrayal of Scarlet Witch has been a significant part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe for nearly a decade. Since her debut in 2014’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Olsen has continued to shine in various Marvel films and even headlined her own TV series. In a recent interview on NPR’s Wild Card With Rachel Martin, Olsen expressed her ongoing effort to showcase her versatility beyond her Marvel role.

“I feel like I still have to prove myself when it comes to aligning my work with my personal taste,” Olsen shared. She acknowledged that her portrayal of Scarlet Witch has influenced how she is perceived in Hollywood. “Especially in professional settings, I strive to convey my personal preferences in films and literature, which is something I believe I still need to demonstrate.”

While Olsen takes pride in her work with Marvel, she revealed that the superhero genre isn’t necessarily her primary interest. “Having dedicated years to Marvel, I now feel that any other projects I take on must truly reflect my personal taste because, as much as I appreciate being part of that world and the character I’ve portrayed, it’s not the type of art I typically consume,” she explained.

She initially joined the Marvel universe due to the grand scale and narrative depth of the stories. “I found the stories to be reminiscent of Greek mythology, reflecting politics and culture in a captivating way,” Olsen said. However, she noted the evolving perception of actors’ involvement in Marvel projects over the past decade.

Despite her Marvel success, Olsen has been deliberate in pursuing smaller projects alongside her blockbuster roles. While she may forever be recognized as Scarlet Witch by millions of fans, she continues to explore diverse acting opportunities to showcase her range and personal interests.