One of the returning characters in Marvel’s upcoming Secret Invasion series is Don Cheadle’s James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes. The character has had a constant supporting presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in Iron Man movies, Avengers films, and even The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Now, he’s back to tackle the new series’ titular Secret Invasion.
Who is James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes?
Rhodey first appeared in 2008’s Iron Man, though he was played by Terrence Howard before being replaced by Don Cheadle. Rhodey is one of Tony Stark’s closest friends, supporting him when he’s in need and being honest with Stark when his choices are potentially poor. Eventually Rhodey suits up himself, becoming War Machine (and briefly Iron Patriot in Iron Man 3).
In Captain America: Civil War, Rhodey is hit by a stray beam from Vision, paralyzing him from the waist down. Tony makes Rhodey a pair of supportive robotic leg braces that allow him to walk, leading him to partake in the Battle of Wakanda against Thanos and The Black Order. Rhodey survives the snap and later takes part in gathering the Infinity Stones from the other timeline to revive all the people who were killed before joining the final battle against Thanos. Since then, he’s offered Sam Wilson advice when the latter was struggling with the legacy of Captain America.
In the first episode of Secret Invasion, Rhodey advises the President as to Nick Fury’s whereabouts as the invasion begins.
Who is Don Cheadle?
Don Cheadle is an acclaimed actor who has won two Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and more. Some of Cheadle’s most known roles include Basher Tarr in Ocean’s Eleven, Paul Rusesabagina in Hotel Rwanda, and Al-G Rhythm in Space Jam: A New Legacy.