The Shocking Fallout: Secret Invasion Shatters a Legendary Legacy

Spoiler Warning: The following content discusses Secret Invasion. Highly anticipated and hyped, Secret Invasion shed light on the character of Nick Fury, a crucial figure in the MCU and the one responsible for assembling the Avengers. Presumed missing after being revealed as a Skrull in Spider-Man: Far From Home, the show finally addresses his whereabouts after a four-year wait. The storyline revolves around his efforts to thwart the Skrulls, an alien race set on dominating Earth. However, the show faced criticism for its generic and slow-paced plot, as well as for its treatment of beloved MCU characters. In fact, the finale received a staggering 8% score on Rotten Tomatoes, marking it as one of the lowest-rated episodes ever.

In the early episodes of Secret Invasion, it was revealed that Colonel James Rhodes was actually a Skrull and not a human. This revelation left fans disappointed, rather than shocked, as another character became associated with the Skrulls. Now, questions arise regarding how long Rhodes has been a Skrull and the whereabouts of the real Rhodes.

Who Is James Rhodes?

Colonel James Rhodes, who is famously known for piloting the War Machine in the MCU films, has been a long-standing character. Originally portrayed by Terrence Howard, the role was eventually taken over by Don Cheadle. Colonel Rhodes, a close associate of Tony Stark, made his first appearance in the inaugural Iron Man movie over 14 years ago. While serving in the military, he also embraced his alter ego as a part-time superhero, donning the War Machine suit in Iron Man 2.

Being one of Tony's steadfast allies, War Machine has played a crucial role in various battles, including facing off against Captain America and the Winter Soldier in the eponymous movie. In addition to being a friend to Tony, Rhodes has supported the Avengers in their fights against Ultron and Thanos. Sadly, Rhodes suffered paralysis when Vision's laser, originally meant for The Falcon, accidentally struck him. Tony developed special leg braces to assist him in walking again, although they were unnecessary when he wore the War Machine suit.

How Long Has Rhodes Been A Skrull For?

In the second episode, it became evident that the character Rhodes in the show was indeed a Skrull. Despite his paralysis, Secret Invasion showcased him walking early on, providing clear evidence of his Skrull identity. Rhodes assumed the role of Advisor to the President in the show, which greatly aided the Skrulls in their invasion of Earth. However, Nick Fury revealed his true identity in episode 5, cornering him against a hospital wall.

Addressing the speculation among fans, Marvel Studios' head, Kevin Feige, addressed the question of how long Rhodes had been a Skrull in an interview. He confirmed that Rhodes had been a Skrull since Captain America: Civil War, implying that he was replaced by a Skrull after his fall following the events of Avengers: Endgame and before Spiderman: Far From Home.

What Happened To The Real Rhodes?

In episode 6 of Secret Invasion, Rhodes is discovered being held captive in a pod by the Skrulls. They keep him alive to access his memories. After defeating Gravik, Gi'ah rescues Rhodey, along with other human scientists and political leaders who were secretly replaced by Skrulls for the invasion. Rhodey, whose legs were paralyzed in Captain America: Civil War, struggles to exit the pod. Eventually, soldiers help him out. It is evident from Rhodey still wearing his hospital gown that he was replaced by the Skrulls after his injury, most likely during his hospitalization, which presented the Skrulls with the perfect opportunity.

This revelation disappointed and angered some fans, as it fundamentally alters the character. If Rhodes has been a Skrull since Civil War, then the real Rhodes is completely unaware of the events of Infinity War and Endgame, including the blip and the death of his best friend, Tony Stark. Additionally, it undermines the significance of Rhodes' previous moments in the movies, such as his loyalty to Captain America and the remaining Avengers after the blip. It appears that the decision to make Rhodes a Skrull was not part of the character's original trajectory and was a recent development.

Rhodes's Future In The MCU

Rhodes' future hangs in the balance as he confronts the aftermath of recent events. Little was revealed about Rhodes' situation at the conclusion of Secret Invasion, leaving uncertainty in the air. However, the upcoming Armor Wars movie provides an opportunity for the MCU to rectify the injustice done to his character. Originally envisioned as a TV series based on the eponymous comic, Armor Wars has since been transformed into a film. The narrative will center around War Machine, who will evolve from a sidekick to Iron Man into a formidable superhero in his own right.

The plot of the Armor Wars comics centered on Tony Stark's battle to prevent his technology from falling into the wrong hands. However, with Tony's demise in the MCU, the movie adaptation will adopt a similar storyline, with War Machine stepping up to safeguard his friend's legacy. While War Machine will take center stage, the cast of Armor Wars is expected to include other superheroes, such as Iron Heart from Black Panther 2.

In Armor Wars, Rhodes will navigate the emotional aftermath of losing Tony and come to terms with all that transpired. However, fans will have to wait as the release of Armor Wars in Phase 5 or 6 is still distant.