Fans are certain that Rhodey is a Skrull after watching episode 2 of Secret Invasion, titled "Promises." In Marvel Studios' latest Disney show, Nick Fury and Talos the Skrull are desperately working together to prevent a group of shape-shifting aliens from conquering Earth. The unexpected loss of Maria Hill further complicates Fury's mission, as he may be losing another supposed ally who could assist him in his fight against the Skrulls.
One of the major aspects that draws viewers to Secret Invasion is the challenge of determining which characters are actually Skrulls and which ones are not. Episode 2 unveils that Everett Ross has been infiltrated by a shape-shifter, leading to strong speculation among MCU fans that Rhodey is also a Skrull. This belief is reflected in the tweets shared below:
Rhodey's disrespect of Nick Fury really didn't fit with their past relationship or Fury's status as the founder of the Avengers...
Or maybe Secret Invasion is being too obvious?
Everyone had the same thought - Rhodey is the second MCU hero after Agent Ross to be replaced...
Rhodey's behavior in conversation with Fury prompted further theorizing that he's been replaced by a Skrull spy...
Is Rhodey Really A Skrull In Secret Invasion?
Entering Secret Invasion, speculations about Skrulls infiltrating the MCU were already circulating. Having lived amongst humans for decades, these shape-shifters were discreetly blending in. However, this arrangement was not intended to be permanent. Regrettably, Fury and Carol Danvers were unsuccessful in finding a new home for the Skrulls, a fact emphasized throughout Secret Invasion. Director Ali Selim previously stated that only fans can fully trust Nick Fury and Talos.
Identifying the Skrulls concealed within the MCU remains a challenge. Marvel Studios occasionally drops hints, such as deliberately extending shots on certain characters or capturing their transformation back to their original green forms. Yet, the most significant indication of Rhodey being a Skrull lies in his behavior. Fans are convinced of his uncharacteristic actions following a tense conversation with Fury. Given Rhodey's long presence in the MCU, loyal followers of the franchise know him quite well.
Rhodey's connections to US President Ritson, played by Dermot Mulroney, could potentially provide another clue about his true nature. There are suspicions that Ritson could also be a Skrull, a shape-shifting alien. This speculation arises from the fact that in the comic book series Secret Invasion, Harrison Ford's character Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross is portrayed as the president in Captain America: Brave New World. Therefore, it is not implausible to consider that Gravik and his followers managed to replace both Rhodey and Ritson with their own counterparts as part of their invasion strategy.