Unveiling the Truth: The Shocking Revelation About Rhodey's True Identity

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Secret Invasion

Summary

Speculation surrounding Don Cheadle's character, James Rhodes, in the MCU centers on the possibility of him being replaced by a Skrull. This raises questions regarding the timing of the replacement and its potential impact on the timeline. Various theories propose that Rhodey was substituted by a Skrull either following the events of Captain America: Civil War, prior to Avengers: Endgame, or shortly before the events of Secret Invasion.

The timing of Rhodey's replacement holds significant consequences for key moments in the MCU, impacting both emotional weight and plot developments. The truth behind this remains unknown, but upcoming Marvel projects promise further revelations. Marvel is currently faced with a major question: When did Don Cheadle's James Rhodes get replaced as a Skrull in the MCU? Rhodey's involvement in Secret Invasion went beyond expectations, including his work in the White House and his controversial act of firing Nick Fury. Moreover, he was exposed as an impostor working for the villain Gravik, portrayed by Kingsley Ben-Adir. However, when G'iah, played by Emilia Clarke, ultimately rescues the real Rhodey from New Skrullos, she informs him that he has been under for "a long time," potentially causing significant changes in the MCU. Instantly, this comment sparked debates about the length of time Rhodey has been a Skrull.

In light of Secret Invasion's conclusion, it has become evident that Rhodey's disappearance occurred much earlier than initially believed. While this theory is supported by evidence, it carries significant ramifications for the past nine years of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) that should be taken into account when determining the actual timeline of Rhodes' incapacitation. Marvel has provided a range of information thus far, leading to the establishment of four prevailing theories that carry considerable weight. Although each theory has its flaws, these four possibilities appear to be the most plausible explanations.

4 Rhodey Was Replaced By A Skrull After Captain America: Civil War

Rhodey faces a tragic incident during Captain America: Civil War, where Vision unintentionally shoots him down from the sky, leaving him paralyzed. Utilizing Tony Stark's groundbreaking technology, Rhodey is equipped with leg braces that enable him to walk with the aid of physiotherapy. However, when G'iah ultimately rescues him in Secret Invasion, Rhodey wears the familiar hospital gown he wore right after his injury, sparking speculation among viewers. This detail hints that he may have been captured even before undergoing his rehabilitation, raising the possibility that the Rhodey portrayed later in the movie is actually a Skrull impostor.

Secret Invasion director, Ali Selim, supported this theory in an interview with ComicBook.com. According to Selim, Rhodey's inability to walk in Secret Invasion episode 6 suggests that he was taken hostage during Captain America: Civil War. However, Selim notes that this is not confirmed and part of the excitement lies in revisiting previous moments involving Rhodey to determine when he was swapped out.

Considering the evidence supporting this theory, the implications of Rhodey being out of action for nine years (the time between Captain America: Civil War and Secret Invasion) are significant. Many important events occur during this period, such as the Blip, the escalation of Endgame, and Tony Stark's death. Critics argue that this revelation diminishes the emotional weight of those moments, knowing that Rhodey was not himself.

3 Rhodey Became A Skrull Before Avengers: Endgame

If Rhodey didn't immediately become a Skrull after his injury in Civil War, there is a chance that he was actually replaced prior to Avengers: Endgame, possibly during Avengers: Infinity War. The hospital gown, which is considered as crucial evidence, suggests that his replacement may have taken place during a follow-up appointment for his injury. However, there are several problems with this theory.

In episode 5 of Secret Invasion, Fury mentions that he possesses DNA samples from almost everyone involved in the final battle of Avengers: Endgame. If he had collected a sample of Rhodey's blood after the battle, the deception would have been exposed right away. The only way for Rhodey to have been a Skrull during that time would be if the Skrull posing as Rhodey had planted the real Rhodey's blood at the battle scene before Fury arrived. This scenario would require Rhodey's secret to have been unknown even to the Skrulls themselves. The unlikelihood of such a situation seems to discredit the possibility of this Skrull theory.

Additionally,

2 Rhodey Became A Skrull After Avengers: Endgame

2 Rhodey Became A Skrull After Avengers: Endgame

2 Rhodey Became A Skrull After Avengers: Endgame

This theory presents the most logical explanation for Rhodey's potential Skrull identity. Given the chaotic aftermath of the Blip, any changes in Rhodey would likely go unnoticed as people attribute them to grief or stress. This window of opportunity allows Rhodey to secure his political standing in anticipation of the events of Secret Invasion. The recent developments in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier further emphasize the advantages of having a Skrull in a position of influence.

Rhodey's appearance in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier raises interesting questions. In his conversation with Sam Wilson, Rhodey emphasizes the importance of change and growth in a post-Blip world. While this could simply be a motivational dialogue to encourage Sam to become Captain America, it is also possible to interpret it as subtle hints of a Skrull planting seeds of discontent and the desire for change. Considering Rhodey's involvement in the Secret Invasion, his references to a new world and shifting alliances take on a whole new significance.

Moreover, there is a potential connection between Rhodey's words and the Skrulls' interest in obtaining the super-soldier serum featured in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. According to an article by Collider, as someone who played a crucial role in the White House, Rhodey likely knew the identity of the upcoming Captain America and may have had access to the serum. Though there is no concrete evidence suggesting Rhodey had been replaced by a Skrull, the presence of a Skrull in a position of power during this time would present ideal opportunities.

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1 Rhodey Was Replaced By A Skrull Just Before Secret Invasion

Since there is no definitive evidence indicating that Rhodey is a Skrull in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, only speculative theories remain. Therefore, the only plausible timeframe for him to be swapped out would be the year preceding Secret Invasion. During this period, Rhodey's absence from the screen would allow for a seamless transition to a Skrull and his subsequent return to reality after being rescued would be much smoother.

All other theories rely on Rhodey missing crucial plot points in both his personal story and the broader MCU. From a writer's perspective, this particular timeframe would offer the easiest path for his reintegration into the story following the conclusion of Secret Invasion, minimizing the need to relive past traumas. However, this contradicts the mention of Rhodey being held captive for a "long time" in episode 6, as being a hostage for just a year may not truly meet that description.

Each of these theories has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. However, the truth behind the swapping out of this Avenger may only be revealed in the moments spanning from Captain America: Civil War to Secret Invasion. It is anticipated that Armor Wars will provide answers to these questions. Until then, viewers can engage in rewatching and debating the mysterious fate of War Machine.

Stream all episodes of Secret Invasion exclusively on Disney+ on demand.