What If? episode 4 focused on an alternate reality Doctor Strange who, in an effort to turn back time and prevent the death of Christine Palmer, places his universe under threat. While Strange doesn’t break his hands in this episode, the death of Christine still sends him on a path towards the Ancient One and becoming the Sorcerer Supreme, with his mentor having a big impact on the episode. But is the Ancient One voice actor Tilda Swinton in this new episode, or does someone else take her place?
Does Tilda Swinton voice the Ancient One in What If?
Yes, Tilda Swinton reprises her role as the Ancient One in What If? episode 4. Swinton’s name appears in the show’s final credits and, while the character doesn’t survive the episode, she does leave a big impact on Dr. Strange.
The Ancient One confronts Strange about his quest to resurrect Christine, which sees him repeatedly turning back time. In order to prevent this, she divides Strange into two within the same timeline which, as we’ve learned from Loki, such timeline meddling can prove to be disastrous.
After the Ancient One dies, she appears in an “echo” for Strange, informing him that the other half of him’s continued pursuit to revive Christine will result in an apocalyptic event for their universe. However, Strange is unable to stop himself, and the end result is the two versions of Strange assimilating, turning back the clock on Christine’s death, and then watching as their world tumbles around them.
It’s a questionable move from the Ancient One, who agrees with Strange that her decision was “reckless.” That seems to be putting it lightly, given that her decision ultimately ended in the destruction of their universe.
For more What If? coverage, read our spoiler theories on the next episode of the Disney Plus series. Also, is that Benedict Cumberbatch you heard in episode 4?
