To be fair, the theory has calmed down as of late but most people are on the fence on where to stand with this.
There is a theory that Rhodey may have been a Skrull since the events that took place during Civil War.
This stemmed from comments by the Director, Ali Selim. These are the comments;
“A lot of people have asked about, ‘Definitively, when did Rhodey…?'” Selim said. “I think his legs not working in the end of episode six and him being in the hospital gown points to [Captain America: Civil War]. And, from there, does it have to be definitive, or is it more fun for the audience to go back and revisit every moment, every Rhodey moment and look at it with a different lens now that they think, ‘Oh, he might’ve been a Skrull there.’ And make the decision for themselves, or it’ll be answered in Armor Wars.”
ali selim to comicbook.com
I have noticed that some people have misunderstood Selim’s comments and taken them as conclusive. However, Selim was simply suggesting that we think about it, and the answer will be revealed in Armor Wars.
Here’s my take.
Rhodey became a Skrull AFTER the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Here’s why I stand on that side of the fence.
1. The Exoskeleton
People believe Rhodey wasn’t wearing the suit in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier but he was.
You can see the exoskeleton underneath his suit which is why he’s able to walk freely. He also had this same exoskeleton in Infinity War and Endgame but never used it at all during Secret Invasion. This is how people were able to decipher that Rhodey was a Skrull here but I don’t believe he’s been a Skrull for as long as people think.
Also, after the Avengers Compound is obliterated by Thanos, Rhodes is trapped underneath with Hulk and Rocket. After he ejects from the suit, he can’t walk and is desperate to save Hulk and Rocket. Surely if Rhodes was a Skrull, he’d have no problem walking (nobody could see him) and he wouldn’t be so desperate to save the others either.
2. Gravik
It has been confirmed in the show that Gravik continued to work with Fury after The Battle of Earth. Gravik assisted Fury in collecting the Harvest, which included the blood of the Avengers and the villains who were involved in the battle.
So at this stage, Gravik obviously still trusts Fury or that trust is beginning to crack after Endgame. Prior to this, why would he begin kidnapping world leaders and others at this stage when he’s still working for Fury?
One could argue that he was double-crossing Fury, but I don’t think so. Gravik genuinely believed in Fury’s promise to find a home for the Skrulls. Therefore, it doesn’t make sense for Gravik to betray Fury at this stage.
3. Ali Selim
Please bear with me as I share my perspective. While I could be mistaken, I don’t believe that Ali Selim possesses the authority to make a decision of this magnitude. This theory, if proven true, could have significant implications for the overall Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The responsibility of making such a significant decision falls upon Kevin Feige. If Rhodey was a Skrull since Civil War, it would raise questions about Iron Man, his death, and Rhodey’s willingness to fight against Thanos. It seems unlikely that a single director for a show would have the authority to make such a decision.
4. Rhodey’s personality
It’s apparent that Rhodey can be difficult at times, but he does strive to make ethical decisions. Being a member of the military and holding a high rank, this is expected of him. The Secret Invasion series highlights the noticeable shift in his demeanor.
In “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” the character expresses empathy towards Sam when he relinquishes the shield. The scene is quite touching, and I don’t believe that the Skrull version of Rhodey would be capable of having such a conversation with Sam. Here is the scene:
Additionally, I am confident that Tony Stark, of all people, would swiftly notice that his closest ally is not the same as before.
I am always open-minded when it comes to theories. If you believe that he has been a Skrull since Civil War, please share your thoughts in the comments. I am interested to see some solid points for the other side of the debate.
I don’t mind which way it goes in fairness, I’m open to it being either or.
