Uncover the Mind-Blowing Nods & Hidden Gems: 18 Must-See Easter Eggs in Secret Invasion Episode 2

Warning! This article contains SPOILERS regarding Secret Invasion episode 2. Episode 2 delves deeper into the show's complex storyline and characters, allowing for numerous Easter eggs and references to the wider MCU. Similar to the previous episode, Secret Invasion maintains its darker tone in episode 2. After the Moscow bombing, Nick Fury finds himself increasingly isolated as he tries to thwart Gravik's covert infiltration of Earth, while also grappling with his past decisions.

Picking up from the cliffhanger ending of episode 1, Fury seeks assistance from Rhodes, while Gravik continues his plans to conquer Earth, some of which are unknown to G'iah. By further exploring the characters in episode 2, Secret Invasion's script gets the opportunity to incorporate various references to the broader MCU, resulting in the inclusion of more Easter eggs throughout the episode. From the flashback sequences at the beginning to the surprising conclusion involving Nick Fury's personal life, here are all the MCU Easter eggs discovered in the ending of Secret Invasion episode 2.

18 Secret Invasion Episode 2 Begins With Scenes From Captain Marvel

Just as Secret Invasion episode 2's ending recontextualizes Nick Fury's present, the opening scenes aim to recontextualize his past. This is achieved by directly showcasing scenes from Captain Marvel. Secret Invasion episode 2 commences with a title card displaying "1995", followed by a sequence of scenes from Captain Marvel that serve as a recap of Fury's initial encounter with the Skrulls in that film. Ranging from his first encounter with Talos to Carol Danvers flying away with the Skrulls in search of a new home, Secret Invasion episode 2's most notable MCU Easter egg involves the inclusion of scenes from the Skrulls' first appearance.

17 Marvel Studios' Shorter Logo Continues In Secret Invasion Episode 2

Following the example set by Secret Invasion episode 1, episode 2 introduces a revamped Marvel logo. Once again, the logo is kept brief and to the point, allowing the opening sequence of Secret Invasion episode 2 to maintain its dynamic pace after the scenes from Captain Marvel. This deliberate choice aligns with the show's darker tone by eschewing the lively, comic book elements of Marvel Studios' original logo. Instead, it swiftly transitions to the new scenes set in 1997 that were specifically filmed for Secret Invasion.

16 Secret Invasion Episode 2 References Nick Fury's Captain Marvel Appearance

During the initial sequences set in 1997, Samuel L. Jackson once again assumes a younger appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This alludes to his portrayal in Captain Marvel, where Fury bears a striking resemblance to his end-of-movie self: a considerably younger iteration with an eyepatch, indicating his recent injury. This particular scene highlights Fury's inaugural encounter with Gravik, both looking significantly younger than their depiction in Secret Invasion episode 1.

15 Secret Invasion Episode 2 References What Happened After Captain Marvel

After Captain Marvel promised to find the Skrulls a new home, it remains a mystery why they are now invading Earth. The reveal of the Skrulls facing persecution wherever they went is not just an Easter egg, but also a reference to both Captain Marvel and Secret Invasion episode 1. This scene establishes further context for Carol's storyline in Captain Marvel and the conversations between Fury and Talos in the premiere episode of Secret Invasion, making it a meaningful connection between these two MCU projects.

14 Secret Invasion's Episode 2 Skrull Reveal Links To Marvel Comics

13 Secret Invasion Episode 2 Has An Easter Egg To A Marvel Comics Skrull

In Secret Invasion episode 2, it is unveiled that there exists approximately one million Skrulls residing on Earth. This clever nod to the Marvel Comics storyline of the same name implies a vastness beyond the initial perception of the series. Prior to the second episode, many anticipated a more limited invasion compared to the comics, but this revelation acknowledges the extensive number of Skrulls that could potentially be concealed on Earth, aligning with Gravik.

During the conversation between Talos and Fury on a Russian train, Talos introduces Emperor Drogge, a powerful being with a colony somewhere in the MCU. This mention connects to the comic character Dro'ge, a highly intelligent Skrull who played a significant role in the creation of a new type of Super-Skrull and the subsequent Secret Invasion storyline in the comics. Although the role of MCU's Drogge remains uncertain, this reference links to Rosa Dalton and her efforts to enhance the Skrulls, as seen in Secret Invasion episode 2.

12 Secret Invasion Episode 2’s Newsreel References The Hidden Skrull Council

When presenting the aftermath of the Moscow bombing in Secret Invasion episode 1, a newsreel captures the global response to the attack. The reactions to the bombing are showcased through various means, including the response of an American news anchor and statements made by the NATO Secretary General and the U.K. Prime Minister. This intriguing snippet serves as an Easter egg hinting at the existence of the covert Skrull council on Earth, which is later disclosed in the episode. It is revealed that the individuals featured in the newsreel are actually Skrulls collaborating with Gravik. Moreover, this nod also pays homage to the Secret Invasion comics, in which Skrulls held influential positions on Earth.

11 The Avengers Are Referenced Again In Secret Invasion Episode 2

During Gravik's conversation with the Skrull council in Secret Invasion episode 2, one council member expresses concern about the potential interference of the Avengers in thwarting their invasion of Earth. This remark alludes to the Avengers' current absence or retirement following the events of Avengers: Endgame. In response, Gravik confidently asserts, "You don't think I considered that?" This suggests that Gravik has a prepared strategy in place should any of the Avengers attempt to hinder the Skrull's grand scheme.

10 Colonel Rhodes References His War Machine Armor In Secret Invasion Episode 2

During a crisis meeting in London,

9 Rhodes Mentions HYDRA During His Conversation With Fury

Rhodes is seen vehemently defending the position of the United States, firmly asserting that Fury and Hill were not acting under the authority of the U.S. government. As one of the delegates from Slovakia consistently rolls their eyes in response to Rhodes' defense, he boldly declares that if they continue to do so, he will put on the War Machine armor and initiate a carpet bombing. Up until now in Secret Invasion, Rhodes has solely made appearances without the suit, thereby alluding to his renowned alter ego within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

A standout moment in episode 2 of Secret Invasion showcases an intriguing conversation between Fury and Rhodes. The former attempts to persuade the latter about the genuine threat posed by the Skrulls. When Rhodes learns about the existence of a borderless organization endangering the planet, his immediate response is to suspect HYDRA. This clever nod refers to various Marvel Cinematic Universe films, spanning from the Captain America trilogy to Avengers: Age of Ultron. Given that HYDRA played a pivotal role in several world-shaping events within the MCU, it is logical for Rhodes to question their potential resurgence.

8 Secret Invasion Episode 2 Reveals Rhodes Knows About The Skrulls

7 Nick Fury's Avengers Explanation Is An Easter Egg To The Secret Invasion Comics

The interaction between Fury and Rhodes also uncovers the fact that Rhodes has been aware of the presence of Skrulls on Earth for a considerable duration. Although this revelation itself is not an Easter egg, it significantly alters the way we perceive Rhodes' involvement in this series and previous MCU projects. With the revelation that Rhodes had knowledge of the Skrulls in past MCU appearances, it casts a new light on those other films and highlights just how long Rhodes has been cognizant of the Skrull activity on Earth.

Just like how the Skrull disguised as NATO's Secretary General previously questioned the inclusion of the Avengers, episode 2 of Secret Invasion sees Rhodey raising a similar question regarding the absence of other heroes that could be called upon for help. In response, Fury explains that involving the Avengers could potentially enable the Skrulls to imitate them, leading to a dangerous situation where these imposters could turn the heroes into terrorists. This nod to the Secret Invasion comic book storyline highlights the Skrulls' ability to impersonate Earth's Mightiest Heroes, perpetrating evil deeds under the guise of being Avengers or members of other superhero teams.

6 Nick Fury References The Events Of Captain America: The Winter Soldier

5 Rosa Dalton Has A DNA Sample Of Groot In Secret Invasion Episode 2

: In Secret Invasion episode 2, there is another allusion to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) during the conversation between Rhodes and Fury. Fury, appealing to Rhodes for assistance, highlights their shared challenges as black men in America as they strive to advance in positions of power. He also mentions the "mediocre Alexander Pierce's who run this world," which serves as a clever nod to the events in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. In the movie, Alexander Pierce disguised his allegiance to HYDRA while serving as the leader of SHIELD and effectively controlled the world.

A major enigma arises in Secret Invasion episode 2 regarding Gravik's undisclosed intentions concerning Rosa Dalton, a scientist entrusted with procuring DNA samples worldwide in pursuit of something known as the Harvest. Upon examining these samples, G'iah discovers one obtained from Groot. The Skrulls obtained Groot's DNA during his time on Earth, possibly during Avengers: Infinity War or Avengers: Endgame, as indicated in the file referring to his homeworld, Planet X, and his species known as Flora colossus.

4 Thor: The Dark World's Frost Beast Is Another DNA Sample The Skrulls Possess

3 The Skrulls Gathered A Sample From Cull Obsidian After Avengers: Infinity War

In a similar manner, episode 2 of Secret Invasion unveils that the Skrulls possess a DNA sample of an intriguing creature known as a Frost Beast. This creature first appeared in Thor: The Dark World, where it was transported to Earth during the film's climactic finale and the convergence of the Nine Realms. Remarkably, the Skrulls managed to acquire the DNA of this beast after it descended upon Earth, as indicated in the file that also makes a notable reference to Jotunheim, the Frost Beast's place of origin within the Thor franchise.

The Skrulls in Secret Invasion episode 2 showcased another example of their possession, which involved Cull Obsidian. In Avengers: Infinity War, Cull Obsidian, one of Thanos' offspring, had his arm severed by Wong during the initial part of the film. Secret Invasion episode 2 reveals that the Skrulls managed to acquire the arm of Cull Obsidian, enabling them to extract his DNA. Interestingly, Cull Obsidian's home planet and species remain unidentified, adding to the enigma surrounding Thanos' progeny in the MCU.

2 Iron Man 3's Extremis Humans Are Referenced In Secret Invasion Episode 2

Finally, the Skrulls in Secret Invasion episode 2 revealed ownership of the last DNA sample, which belongs to an Extremis human. The introduction of the Extremis beings in Iron Man 3 allowed the Skrulls to acquire some of their DNA. It is evident that the Skrulls are actively sampling abilities from various superpowered species across the galaxy with the goal of enhancing their own capabilities, as disclosed by the captured alien during Sonya Falsworth's interrogation.

1 Secret Invasion Episode Reveals That Nick Fury Is Married

The surprising twist in episode 2 of Secret Invasion unveils the revelation that Nick Fury has a spouse who is a Skrull. This particular detail, although not inherently a hidden reference within the MCU, holds significance due to the identity of Fury's partner. The Skrull in question is the same individual who assisted Fury in recruiting Skrull spies back in 1997, thus implying that Fury may have been married throughout his entire presence in the MCU since Captain Marvel. This Easter egg shines a new light on Fury's character, fundamentally altering the perception of his journey in the MCU following this major reveal in Secret Invasion episode 2.

New episodes of Secret Invasion release every Wednesday on Disney+.