Spoilers for Secret Invasion episode 5: One popular theory about an Avenger being a Skrull is debunked in the latest episode. Marvel Studios' grounded project brings Nick Fury back into the spotlight as he faces off against a faction of Skrulls. Losing trusted allies along the way, Fury is now preparing for a final showdown with Gravik. The danger presented by Secret Invasion's villains lies in their ability to shape-shift, granting them the ability to hide easily.
Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe speculated about which characters might be revealed as Skrulls in the Disney+ show. Episode 4 confirmed that Rhodey is one of them, but the details surrounding this revelation were not explored. This has left viewers with unanswered questions, but the show does provide additional information about Skrull Rhodey, shedding light on the past.
Secret Invasion Confirms Rhodey Wasn't A Skrull During Endgame
In Secret Invasion episode 5, titled "Harvest," Fury deals with the loss of Talos and redirects his focus to the mission. While strategizing his next steps, he collaborates with Sonya Falsworth and shares the information about his Skrull operatives collecting DNA samples from the Battle of Earth at Avengers HQ. Although he does not disclose the specific heroes included in the DNA collection, he emphasizes that almost all the participants in the intense confrontation with Thanos bled. It can be assumed that Rhodey is among those heroes, suggesting that if Fury obtained his DNA during that time, he would have discovered earlier if Rhodey was a Skrull.
The fact that Fury only realizes Rhodey's true identity as a Skrull during the events of Secret Invasion implies that Rhodey was replaced after Avengers: Endgame. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige previously hinted that War Machine might have been a Skrull for a longer duration than initially presumed, sparking fan theories that Rhodey could have been one as early as the events of the Infinity Saga. This revelation holds significant importance as it reshapes the interpretation of their interactions leading up to Tony Stark's demise.
2 Questions The MCU Needs To Answer About Rhodey
While it is confirmed that Skrull Rhodey did not exist during Avengers: Endgame, there are still unanswered questions about him. Secret Invasion finally reveals the identity of the female shape-shifter who was impersonating War Machine, named Varra. However, it remains unclear when exactly Rhodey was replaced. It is speculated that his abduction took place shortly after Stark's death, while Rhodey was still grieving the loss of his close friend. Additionally, the whereabouts of the real Rhodey have yet to be revealed by Marvel Studios. He has not been seen in New Skrullos, but it is possible that his body is hidden there along with other victims.
New episodes of Secret Invasion are released every Wednesday on Disney+.