Ultimate Marvel Lineup Revealed: Meet the Star-Studded Cast of Secret Invasion

Marvel's Secret Invasion brings together a star-studded cast of returning MCU characters and introduces notable A-list actors to the Marvel Comics adaptation. With only 6 episodes, the ingenious concept of Secret Invasion allows for a versatile ensemble that could potentially include anyone in the existing MCU, given the possibility that Skrulls may have replaced individuals. However, for now, Secret Invasion serves as an opportunity to bring Nick Fury back to Earth and reunite him with his closest allies.

If you find yourself wondering where you've seen the actors from Secret Invasion before, or why their character names sound familiar from Marvel Comics, we have all the answers. The cast of Secret Invasion comprises of familiar faces from MCU Phase 1, 2, and 3, as well as newcomers and surprising additions. It's a lineup that includes the most influential figures in the Marvel universe, both human and Skrull. Below, we break down each character and reveal the previous works of every Secret Invasion actor.

Samuel L. Jackson - Nick FIry

Cobie Smulders - Maria Hill

Ben Mendelsohn - Talos

Kingsley Ben-Adir - Gravik

Emilia Clarke - G’iah

Olivia Colman - Sonya Falswort

Don Cheadle - James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes

Dermot Mulroney - President Ritson

Martin Freeman - Everett K. Ross

Samuel L. Jackson As Nick Fury

Samuel L. Jackson reprises his role as Nick Fury in Secret Invasion, taking center stage in the MCU once again. Since his memorable cameo in Iron Man's post-credits scene, Jackson has become a familiar face in the Marvel universe. Initially serving as the Director of SHIELD and later becoming a trusted advisor to the Avengers, he has become an integral part of the franchise. Jackson's extensive acting career includes iconic roles in major franchises like Star Wars, collaborations with acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino, and even the cult classic Snakes On A Plane.

Secret Invasion sees Fury's return to Earth following a prolonged period in space on the SABER space station. He is summoned back due to the tragic demise of his dear friend and long-time ally, Soren. After having been disintegrated by Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War, Fury is left jaded and deeply affected. Now, he is entrusted with the task of investigating the Skrull uprising, all the while grappling with the uncertainty of who he can truly depend on.

Ben Mendelsohn As Talos

While Ben Mendelsohn has become known for his portrayal of villains and criminals in movies like Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Ready Player One, his role as Talos in Captain Marvel in 2019 proved that the talented Australian actor has a diverse range of skills.

Responsible for introducing the Skrulls into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe, Mendelsohn delivered a remarkable performance and reunites with Jackson's Nick Fury once again in Secret Invasion. Talos, who previously appeared in Captain Marvel and Spider-Man: Far From Home's post-credits scene, is the father of Emilia Clarke's character G'iah and the late husband of Soren.

Cobie Smulders As Maria Hill

In Secret Invasion, Cobie Smulders reprises her role as Maria Hill, a trusted ally and former confidant of Nick Fury. Hill first appeared in The Avengers in 2012. By the time of the events in Secret Invasion, Hill has been left on Earth without Fury for several years. She has been handling various problems on her own and has become increasingly frustrated by Fury's lack of communication.

Previously recognized for her portrayal as Robin in the popular sitcom How I Met Your Mother, Smulders has seamlessly transitioned into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) by successfully embodying the character of Hill in various projects, including Agents of SHIELD and What If...?. With her forthcoming appearance in Secret Invasion, it will mark her impressive 9th performance within the mainline MCU.

Emilia Clarke As G'iah

Best known for her iconic portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in HBO's Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke brings her talent and anticipation to the highly anticipated Secret Invasion. In this Marvel Cinematic Universe debut, Clarke takes on the role of G'iah, a Skrull member of the resistance and the estranged daughter of Talos. While audiences caught a glimpse of G'iah as a child in Captain Marvel, Clarke's portrayal delves deeper into the character's bitterness, as she has been radicalized by the perceived mistreatment of the Skrulls. Although G'iah is based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name, her backstory and relationship with Talos are entirely new to the MCU.

Olivia Colman As Sonya Falsworth

Olivia Colman, an Academy-Award-winning actress, takes on the role of Sonya Falsworth in Secret Invasion as MI6's formidable and brilliant agent. Unlike the character from Marvel Comics, Falsworth is an original creation who is determined to safeguard England's interests and national security in the midst of the Skrull crisis. Additionally, she shares a history with Nick Fury and is likely related to James Montgomery Falsworth, a member of Steve Rogers' Howling Commandos in Captain America: The First Avenger.

Known for her exceptional performances in acclaimed projects like The Crown, The Favourite, and The Lost Daughter, among others, Colman brings a sense of gravitas and an irresistibly genuine charm to her portrayal in Secret Invasion. However, it's crucial to recognize that Falsworth is a commanding presence who should not be underestimated.

Kingsley Ben-Adir As Gravik

Kingsley Ben-Adir portrays Gravik, the antagonist in Secret Invasion, where he leads the Skrull resistance. Gravik sees himself as a freedom fighter and is determined to make Earth the new home for the Skrulls, going to any lengths to achieve his mission. Unlike the Marvel Comics arc, Secret Invasion, Gravik is an original character created for the series, replacing the role of Queen Veranke. Gravik's troubled past plays a significant role in his formation of the Skrull rebellion.

Following his critically acclaimed performance as Malcolm X in One Night in Miami, directed by Regina King, Ben-Adir takes on a pivotal role in Secret Invasion. Born in London, Ben-Adir has made a mark in various notable projects such as The OA (2016), High Fidelity (2020), and Peaky Blinders (2013).

Don Cheadle As James "Rhodey" Rhodes, A.K.A. War Machine

Don Cheadle, a long-standing member of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is set to delve deeper into his character of Rhodey in Secret Invasion, paving the way for his upcoming standalone adventure in Armor Wars. Having made his debut as the US Air Force officer and Avenger in Iron Man 2 (2010), taking over the role from Terrence Howard, Rhodey's involvement in Secret Invasion sees him embrace a more political position as the trusted aide to the current president in the MCU.

Martin Freeman As Everett K. Ross

In Secret Invasion episode one, Martin Freeman returns as Everett Ross, reprising his role from Captain America: Civil War and the Black Panther films. This time, Freeman's portrayal of Ross will delve into a more intense and dramatic characterization, especially following the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. In the sequel, Ross finds himself at odds with his own CIA and his ex-wife-turned-boss, Julia Louis-Dreyfus' Valentina, who have turned against him.

Freeman is best known for his roles as Tim in The UK Office and as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit trilogy. Secret Invasion marks his fourth appearance in the MCU.

Dermot Mulroney As President Ritson

Dermot Mulroney has been cast as Ritson, the current President in Secret Invasion, making it the first time a President has been depicted in the MCU since William Sadler portrayed President Matthew Ellis in Iron Man 3. However, it seems that Mulroney's role will be brief, as it has been confirmed that Harrison Ford's General Thaddeus Ross will be the President of the United States in the upcoming Captain America: New World Order.

Mulroney has established a name for himself in the film industry through his notable performances in movies such as Young Guns, My Best Friend's Wedding, and the more recent Scream VI, where he portrayed the character of Detective Bailey. Notably, Secret Invasion marks a reunion for Mulroney and Samuel L Jackson, as they previously collaborated on the 1996 film, The Long Kiss Goodnight.

Secret Invasion Supporting Cast

Richard Dormer As Agent Prescod

In Secret Invasion, Richard Dormer, widely recognized for his previous role as Beric Dondarrion in Game of Thrones, showcases his talent as Agent Prescod, a member of SHIELD who finds himself forced into hiding in Russia due to his extensive understanding of the Skrull Invasion and their intentions to conquer Earth. Additionally, joining the cast is Tony Curran, portraying the character of Prime Minister Derrik.

Tony Curran makes a fleeting appearance as Derrik, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the immediate superior of Sonya Falsworth. The Scottish actor is recognized for his roles in popular shows such as Deadwood and Ray Donovan, as well as his portrayal of the villainous Despero on The CW's The Flash.

Killian Scott As Pagon

Killian Scott became a part of the Secret Invasion series in April 2021, portraying the character Pagon, one of Gravik's Skrull warriors. With notable roles in Dublin Murders and Love/Hate, Scott adds his unique talent to an already impressive ensemble. Pagon appears to be a rendition of the Skrull Fiz from Marvel Comics.

Christopher McDonald As News Host

Christopher McDonald makes an appearance in Secret Invasion starting from episode 2, where he portrays a news channel host who bears a striking resemblance to Tucker Carlson. Known for his extensive acting career, McDonald has taken on numerous roles in both film and television, often portraying antagonistic characters. Superhero enthusiasts might recognize his voice as he lent it to Jor-El in Superman: The Animated Series and an elder version of Superman in Batman Beyond.

Charlayne Woodard As Priscilla Fury

Charlayne Woodard joined the Secret Invasion cast in September 2022 and made her debut appearance in episode 2. Known for her roles as Janice on the sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Mrs. Price in Glass, Woodard portrays the enigmatic and elusive Priscilla Fury, wife of Nick Fury.

Samuel Adewunmi As Beto

Joining the cast of Secret Invasion in March 2023 is British actor Samuel Adewunmi, who will take on the role of Beto, a new Skrull recruit. Adewunmi's impressive performance in the BBC's You Don't Know Me earned him a BAFTA, making him a valuable addition to the cast of Secret Invasion as a strong supporting character.