Introduction
Deep beneath the surface of the Marvel Universe lies a shadowy organization that operates in secret, pulling the strings of power from behind the scenes. This organization is known as the Illuminati, and their influence stretches across the entire Marvel Comics universe. With their vast knowledge, resources, and connections, the Illuminati play a critical role in shaping the course of history.
The Illuminati’s members consist of some of the most powerful and influential figures in the Marvel Universe, including Iron Man, Doctor Strange, Black Bolt, Namor the Sub-Mariner, Professor X, and Reed Richards of the Fantastic Four. Together, they form a cabal of geniuses and rulers who are committed to protecting the world from threats both internal and external, no matter the cost.
As the guardians of the Marvel Universe, the Illuminati have been involved in some of the most epic and world-shaking events in comics history, from the destruction of the Infinity Stones to the incursions that threatened to destroy the entire multiverse. But despite their best intentions, the Illuminati’s methods have often been controversial, and their actions have not gone unnoticed by their enemies. In fact, the organization’s very existence is a closely guarded secret, as they operate in the shadows, far from the prying eyes of the public.
Members
Iron Man (Tony Stark)
As one of the founding members of the Illuminati, Iron Man uses his genius intellect and technological advancements to help lead the group.
Anthony Edward “Tony” Stark, also known as Iron Man, is a founding member of The Illuminati. As the billionaire industrialist and genius inventor, he was a crucial figure in the group’s decision-making and problem-solving process. His resourcefulness and wealth were vital in funding and creating advanced technology for the team.
Iron Man’s greatest strength is his mind, which has enabled him to create powerful weapons and armor that give him superhuman strength and abilities. His advanced suits not only provide him with incredible strength, speed, and durability but also grant him the ability to fly and shoot repulsor beams. His ingenuity and technological prowess have also allowed him to build weapons and gadgets that give him an edge in combat and strategy.
Despite his arrogance and occasional recklessness, Iron Man is a courageous hero who will stop at nothing to protect the world from danger. He has faced countless foes, both inside and outside the Illuminati, and has always emerged victorious, often at great personal sacrifice. His unwavering dedication to the greater good has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, even those who disagree with his methods.
In the Illuminati, Iron Man was an instrumental member, using his genius and resources to help protect the world from threats that even the Avengers could not handle. He often clashed with other members, especially Namor and Black Bolt, but his dedication to the cause never wavered. Iron Man’s presence in the Illuminati ensured that the team had access to cutting-edge technology and weaponry, making him an indispensable member of the group.
Doctor Strange (Stephen Strange)
As the Sorcerer Supreme, Doctor Strange brings a mystical element to the Illuminati.
Doctor Stephen Strange is a founding member of the Illuminati, a secret group of superheroes who operate behind the scenes to protect the Earth. As the Sorcerer Supreme, Doctor Strange brings his vast knowledge of the mystical arts to the group, ensuring that they are always one step ahead of their enemies.
Despite his immense power, Doctor Strange is a deeply flawed character. His arrogance and ego often get in the way of his better judgment, and he has been known to make some questionable decisions in the past. However, he is also fiercely loyal to his friends and allies, and will stop at nothing to protect the innocent.
Doctor Strange’s powers include the ability to cast spells, open portals to other dimensions, and communicate with spirits and otherworldly beings. He is also a skilled fighter, capable of holding his own in hand-to-hand combat. Despite his formidable abilities, he is often portrayed as a reluctant hero, who only steps up to the plate when he has no other choice.
In the Illuminati, Doctor Strange serves as the group’s resident expert on all things magical. He is responsible for monitoring and containing any mystical threats to the Earth, and is often called upon to provide counsel and advice to the other members of the group. Despite his occasional clashes with his fellow members, Doctor Strange remains a vital part of the Illuminati, and a key player in the ongoing battle to protect the planet from all manner of threats.
Black Bolt (Blackagar Boltagon)
The king of the Inhumans, Black Bolt is a quiet and reserved leader who speaks only when necessary, as his voice has the power to level entire cities.
Blackagar Boltagon, also known as Black Bolt, is one of the members of the Illuminati. As the king of the Inhumans, Black Bolt has a regal and powerful presence, and his silence is not a sign of weakness, but rather of the incredible power he possesses.
Black Bolt has the ability to manipulate electrons to create devastating energy blasts with his voice, making him one of the most powerful characters in the Marvel universe. Due to the danger of his power, Black Bolt has learned to communicate through sign language and other non-verbal means. His control over his power is so great that even the slightest whisper from him can level a city.
As a member of the Illuminati, Black Bolt was chosen for his strategic mind and leadership abilities. He is a stoic and serious individual, and is often the voice of reason and calm in times of crisis. He is fiercely protective of his people and will go to great lengths to ensure their safety and prosperity.
Despite his imposing presence and formidable powers, Black Bolt is not without his weaknesses. His powers are linked to his emotions, and a surge of anger or other intense feeling can cause him to lose control and unleash devastating power unintentionally. Additionally, Black Bolt’s leadership of the Inhumans has led to conflicts with other groups, such as the X-Men, who view the Inhumans as a threat.
Overall, Black Bolt is a complex and fascinating character in the Marvel universe, with incredible power and a strong sense of duty and responsibility to his people. As a member of the Illuminati, he brings his strategic mind and leadership abilities to the table, and is a valuable asset in times of crisis.
Namor the Sub-Mariner (Namor McKenzie)
As the ruler of Atlantis, Namor is fiercely loyal to his people and will stop at nothing to protect them.
Namor McKenzie, also known as the Sub-Mariner, is a character who has been both a hero and a villain throughout his career. He is also a member of both the Cabal and the Illuminati.
Namor is the prince of the underwater city of Atlantis and has a complicated personality. He can be arrogant, short-tempered, and vengeful, but he is also capable of great compassion and loyalty. Namor possesses a range of abilities that are characteristic of his Atlantean heritage, including superhuman strength, speed, and durability, as well as the ability to breathe underwater and communicate telepathically with sea life.
Namor is one of the most important members of the Cabal, a group of supervillains who worked together to achieve their goals through nefarious means. He joined the group because he believed that the surface world was a threat to Atlantis and that he needed to take decisive action to protect his people. Namor is also a founding member of the Illuminati, a group of heroes who worked together in secret to tackle threats that were too dangerous for the public to know about.
Despite being a part of the Illuminati, Namor has often been at odds with his fellow members due to his unique perspective as both a ruler of Atlantis and a member of the superhero community. His loyalty lies first and foremost with his people, and he will not hesitate to put their interests above those of the Illuminati or any other group. This has led to numerous conflicts between Namor and his allies, but also demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his duty as a leader.
Namor’s involvement with both the Cabal and the Illuminati has put him in difficult situations, as he must balance his loyalties to his fellow members with his sense of duty to his people. Despite his difficult personality and sometimes villainous actions, Namor remains a complex and fascinating character who has left an indelible mark on the Marvel Universe.
Professor X (Charles Xavier)
The founder of the X-Men, Professor X is a telepathic mutant with the ability to read minds, control thoughts, and project his own consciousness across vast distances.
Charles Francis Xavier, also known as Professor X, is a founding member of the X-Men and a powerful telepath in the Marvel Universe. In addition to his role as a mentor to the X-Men, he was also a member of the Illuminati, a secret society of powerful heroes dedicated to protecting the Earth from threats.
Professor X’s abilities include telepathy, telekinesis, and the power to project astral forms. He is highly intelligent and a skilled strategist, often using his abilities to manipulate the minds of his enemies and allies alike. Despite his immense power, he is known for his compassion and desire to find peaceful solutions to conflicts.
As a member of the Illuminati, Professor X played a crucial role in their decision-making processes, using his telepathy to communicate with other members across great distances. He was often the voice of reason and empathy, seeking to find solutions that would benefit all parties involved.
However, his leadership and motives have been called into question at times, leading to conflicts within the Illuminati and with other heroes. Regardless, Professor X remains a pivotal figure in the Marvel Universe, using his abilities and intellect to guide the next generation of mutants and protect the world from danger.
Mister Fantastic (Reed Richards)
As the leader of the Fantastic Four, Mister Fantastic is a brilliant scientist and inventor who can stretch and contort his body in any way he wishes.
Reed Richards, better known as Mister Fantastic, is one of the most brilliant minds in the Marvel universe. As a founding member of the Illuminati, he used his intellect to help guide the group through complex decisions that affected the entire universe.
Mister Fantastic’s superpower is his elastic body, which can stretch and reshape in any way he desires. He can also shape-shift and manipulate his density to become harder than diamond or lighter than air. His ability to stretch his body beyond its normal limits enables him to reach incredible speeds and cover great distances in a single stride. Additionally, he has an advanced intellect that has helped him to invent countless devices that have saved the world on multiple occasions.
Despite his genius-level intelligence, Mister Fantastic can be socially awkward and often struggles with relating to people on a personal level. He can be obsessive about his work, which can sometimes lead him to neglect his family and relationships. However, he is a loyal friend and will stop at nothing to protect his loved ones and the world from harm.
Mister Fantastic’s involvement in the Illuminati has allowed him to use his intellect to help steer the group through some of their most difficult decisions. He believes in using his knowledge and skills to benefit the greater good and will go to great lengths to ensure that the universe is safe for all.
Black Panther (T’Challa)
As the king of Wakanda, Black Panther is a skilled warrior and leader who is highly respected by his people.
T’Challa, also known as the Black Panther, is a prominent member of the Illuminati. As the king of Wakanda, T’Challa has access to the country’s vast wealth and advanced technology, which he often uses in his battles against evil forces. He was chosen by Stark to be an original member, as a representative of Wakanda, but he turned it down. However, he later joined them to face the Incursions.
With his superhuman strength, agility, and enhanced senses, T’Challa is a formidable warrior and an expert in hand-to-hand combat. He also possesses the ability to draw on the power of a panther god, giving him enhanced speed and durability.
Despite his impressive physical abilities, T’Challa’s greatest strength is his intelligence and strategic mind. He is a skilled tactician and a master of technology, often using his inventions to gain an edge over his enemies.
T’Challa’s personality is complex, shaped by his experiences as a king, a superhero, and a member of the Illuminati. He is fiercely dedicated to protecting his people and maintaining the traditions of his culture, but also recognizes the importance of working with others to achieve common goals. T’Challa is a proud and determined leader, always willing to make difficult decisions for the greater good.
Beast (Hank McCoy)
A member of the X-Men, Beast is a highly intelligent and articulate mutant with incredible strength, agility, and dexterity.
Dr. Henry “Hank” Philip McCoy, aka Beast, is a brilliant scientist and one of the founding members of the X-Men. He was also a part of the Illuminati, using his intelligence and scientific knowledge to help the group make difficult decisions.
Beast possesses superhuman strength, agility, and reflexes, as well as enhanced senses, razor-sharp claws, and prehensile feet. His mutant abilities are further augmented by his vast intellect, allowing him to analyze and strategize in battle.
Despite his fearsome appearance, Beast is a gentle and empathetic soul who values intelligence and education above all else. He is known for his wit and humor, as well as his unwavering loyalty to his friends and teammates.
Throughout his adventures with the X-Men, Beast has faced numerous challenges and struggles, including grappling with his own identity as a mutant and dealing with the physical toll his abilities have taken on his body. But through it all, he has remained a steadfast and beloved member of the Marvel Universe.
Headquarters
The headquarters of The Illuminati is known as The Necropolis, a hidden city located deep in the heart of Wakanda, the African nation ruled by T’Challa, also known as Black Panther. The Necropolis is a fortified city that boasts advanced technology, including artificial intelligence systems, and is completely self-sufficient. The city is made up of a series of interconnected tunnels and chambers that span miles beneath the earth’s surface.
The Necropolis is home to The Illuminati’s command center, a high-tech meeting room that serves as the group’s primary base of operations. This meeting room is equipped with advanced holographic projectors, allowing members to share information and strategize together, no matter where they are located around the world. The room is also designed with sophisticated security systems to prevent unauthorized access.
While The Necropolis is primarily used by The Illuminati, it also serves as a sanctuary for the ancient Wakandan cult of the Black Panther, who have been guarding the city’s secrets for generations. As such, The Necropolis is heavily guarded by the Dora Milaje, an all-female special forces unit of Wakanda.
The location of The Necropolis is a well-guarded secret, known only to the members of The Illuminati and a select few Wakandan elders. Access to the city is strictly controlled, with only a handful of trusted individuals permitted to enter. The isolation and security of The Necropolis make it the perfect base of operations for The Illuminati, allowing them to operate with complete secrecy and anonymity.
Weaknesses
As one of the most powerful and influential groups in the Marvel Universe, The Illuminati may seem invincible. However, like all things, they too have their weaknesses.
One of the most notable weaknesses of The Illuminati is their own egos. Each member is incredibly intelligent and powerful in their own right, and this can sometimes lead to conflicts within the group. Their individual goals and beliefs can clash, causing disagreements that could potentially weaken the group’s cohesion.
Another weakness is their secrecy. While their intentions are noble, their actions are often kept hidden from the rest of the world. This can lead to misunderstandings and mistrust from others, as well as the possibility of an enemy discovering their plans and exploiting their weaknesses.
Another potential weakness is the lack of diversity within the group. The Illuminati is composed of mostly wealthy, white, male superheroes. This homogeneity could make them vulnerable to blind spots and biases that could impact their decision making.
Lastly, their enemies are always looking for ways to take down The Illuminati. From traditional villains like Doctor Doom and Thanos, to newer threats like The Maker and The Cabal, The Illuminati must always be on guard and ready to defend themselves against those who would seek to destroy them.
Despite these weaknesses, The Illuminati remains one of the most powerful and influential groups in the Marvel Universe, and their determination and intelligence often make up for any shortcomings they may have.
Villains
Green Goblin (Norman Osborn)
Norman Osborn, also known as the Green Goblin, is one of the most infamous villains in the Marvel universe.
Osborn is a genius inventor, a skilled strategist, and a master manipulator. Osborn has been involved with both the Cabal and the Illuminati, two groups that represent opposing sides of the Marvel universe.
As a member of the Cabal, Osborn sought to gain power and control through any means necessary. He was willing to work with other villains such as Doctor Doom and the Hood in order to achieve his goals. Osborn’s ruthless tactics, combined with his intelligence and cunning, made him a formidable opponent for the heroes of the Marvel universe.
On the other hand, the Illuminati, made up of some of the most powerful and influential heroes, sought to protect the world from threats. As a villain, Osborn was seen as a threat to their mission and was opposed by the likes of Iron Man and Black Bolt. His manipulative nature and thirst for power made him an enemy to the Illuminati and a danger to the world.
Overall, Norman Osborn’s intelligence, strategic mind, and ruthlessness make him one of the most memorable villains in the Marvel universe. Whether as a member of the Cabal or a foe of the Illuminati, his presence always has far-reaching consequences for the Marvel universe.
Doctor Doom (Victor von Doom)
Doctor Doom, whose real name is Victor Von Doom, is one of the most iconic villains in Marvel Comics.
Doom is a brilliant scientist, inventor, and sorcerer, with a twisted sense of morality that makes him a formidable foe for any hero. He has a long history with both the Cabal and the Illuminati, two groups of powerful villains who have attempted to reshape the world in their image.
Doom’s involvement with the Cabal began during the “Dark Reign” storyline, when he was appointed as the leader of the organization by Norman Osborn. Together with the likes of Loki, Emma Frost, and the Hood, they set out to conquer the world and bend it to their will. Doom proved to be a valuable member of the group, using his vast resources and intellect to advance their goals. However, his true loyalty always remained with his own ambitions.
As for the Illuminati, Doom has had a much more adversarial relationship with them. They are a group of powerful heroes who work behind the scenes to protect the world from threats that others cannot handle. Doom has clashed with the Illuminati on numerous occasions, often attempting to usurp their power or eliminate them altogether. He sees them as a threat to his own goals and is willing to do whatever it takes to neutralize them.
Doom’s attributes and abilities are numerous, making him one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe. He is a genius inventor and skilled sorcerer, with a suit of armor that grants him superhuman strength, durability, and energy projection. He is also a master strategist and has a charismatic presence that makes him a natural leader. His personality is complex, as he sees himself as a benevolent dictator who seeks to save the world from itself. He has a tragic backstory that fuels his desire for power, and his arrogance and ruthlessness make him a formidable foe for any hero.
Hood (Parker Robbins)
The Hood, also known as Parker Robbins, is a villain who is known for his involvement with both the Cabal and the Illuminati.
Robbins is a ruthless criminal mastermind with a penchant for violence and manipulation, often using his powers and connections to further his own agenda.
Robbins is able to manipulate magical energy to his advantage, which grants him a variety of abilities including teleportation, invisibility, and telekinesis. His suit also provides him with additional powers such as superhuman strength and durability. He’s a dangerous opponent in battle and has proven to be a formidable foe for many heroes in the Marvel Universe.
Despite his villainous tendencies, Robbins is a complex character with a troubled past that has shaped his personality and motivations. He grew up in a family of criminals and was exposed to violence and criminal activity from a young age. This upbringing instilled a sense of ruthlessness and ambition in him, driving him to pursue power and wealth at any cost.
Robbins’ involvement with the Cabal and the Illuminati has allowed him to increase his power and influence even further, as he works alongside other powerful villains to achieve his goals. However, his alliances are often short-lived, as he has a tendency to betray his allies and pursue his own interests above all else. His unpredictable nature makes him a dangerous enemy, and one that should not be underestimated.
Loki Laufeyson
Loki Laufeyson, also known as the God of Mischief, is one of the most iconic villains in the Marvel Universe.
Loki has been involved in various story arcs, including the Cabal and Illuminati. Loki is known for his mischievous personality and his ability to manipulate events to his advantage.
Loki possesses a wide range of abilities, including superhuman strength, durability, and longevity. He is a skilled sorcerer, able to cast powerful spells and illusions, and has the ability to shape-shift into any form he desires. His intelligence and cunning make him a formidable adversary, as he is able to outsmart even the most skilled heroes.
As a member of the Cabal, Loki worked alongside other villains to achieve his goals. He was a key player in many of the group’s schemes, often using his cunning and manipulation to keep his fellow members in line. In his involvement with the Illuminati, Loki played a more complex role, sometimes working alongside the group and other times acting as a thorn in their side.
Overall, Loki is a complex and intriguing villain who has left a lasting impact on the Marvel Universe. His involvement with the Cabal and Illuminati adds depth to his character, and his abilities and personality make him a formidable opponent for any hero.
Emma Frost
Emma Grace Frost, also known as the White Queen, is a powerful mutant telepath and member of the Cabal.
Emma is also known for her involvement in the Illuminati (from Earth-2319), a group of powerful superheroes and leaders who make difficult decisions in secret. Emma is a complex character with a difficult past, but she has shown herself to be a formidable ally and a dangerous enemy.
Emma Frost is a skilled telepath who can read minds, project her thoughts, and manipulate others’ emotions. She can also transform her body into diamond form, making her impervious to most physical attacks. Her intelligence, cunning, and manipulative abilities make her a valuable member of the Cabal and the Illuminati.
Emma’s personality is often cold and calculating, but she has a vulnerable side as well. Her past trauma and struggles with mental illness have shaped her into the strong but complicated person she is today. Despite her sometimes ruthless behavior, Emma has shown that she is willing to fight for what she believes in and protect those she cares about, even if it means making difficult choices.
As a member of the Cabal and the Illuminati, Emma Frost has played a key role in many important events in the Marvel Universe. Her intelligence and power have allowed her to make strategic decisions and manipulate events from behind the scenes. She is a dangerous enemy and a valuable ally, and her involvement in these groups has helped shape the course of the Marvel Universe.
Publication
The Illuminati are a group of the most brilliant minds in the Marvel Universe. These are the people who make the tough decisions, who see the bigger picture, who know that sometimes, the ends justify the means. And they work in secret, behind the scenes, to protect the world from the biggest threats that the universe can throw at it.
The group was first established (via story retcon) in their first published appearance in New Avengers #7 (July 2005), written by Brian Michael Bendis. Their history was discussed in the special New Avengers: Illuminati (May 2006). The group was revealed to have been formed very shortly after the Kree–Skrull War. And their members included some of the biggest names in the Marvel Universe, such as Tony Stark (Iron Man), Professor X, Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic), Doctor Strange, Namor, and Black Bolt.
These heroes banded together in secret, realizing that there were threats that the Avengers and other teams could not handle alone. And they took on some of the biggest threats to the world, including the Skrulls, the Beyonder, and the Illuminati themselves, as they struggled with the weight of the decisions they made. With their intelligence, abilities, and resources, the Illuminati have been a force to be reckoned with in the Marvel Universe.
From their secret meetings to their world-saving missions, the Illuminati have become an important part of the Marvel Universe. And their story has captivated readers for years, showing us that sometimes the greatest heroes are those who work in the shadows.
Biography
The Illuminati were brought together in the aftermath of the Kree-Skrull War, a conflict that had ravaged the Earth. The group consisted of Iron Man, representing the Avengers; Mister Fantastic, representing the Fantastic Four; Namor, representing Atlantis; Black Bolt, representing the Inhumans; Professor Xavier, representing the X-Men; Black Panther, representing Wakanda; and Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme of Earth.
Their initial mission was to share information and prevent future threats to Earth, but their existence remained a secret for a number of years. Over the years, the Illuminati have faced numerous challenges and made difficult decisions that have had a profound impact on the Marvel Universe. They were responsible for sending the Hulk into space, which led to the events of Planet Hulk and World War Hulk.
However, they were soon outed during the World War Hulk crisis, which led to their increasingly divided opinions on how to handle threats to Earth. Despite their differences, the Illuminati continued to reunite when faced with major crises that threatened the fate of the entire universe.
But when the end of the multiverse was imminent due to the incursions, the Illuminati were pushed to their limits. They were forced to make decisions that ultimately alienated their friends and allies, but they succeeded in saving the multiverse from destruction. However, the cost was high, and the group disbanded soon after.
Their story is one of sacrifice, tragedy, and difficult decisions. The Illuminati may have been controversial, but their efforts were crucial in keeping the Marvel Universe safe. They are an example of how even the most powerful heroes must sometimes work in secrecy and make difficult choices for the greater good.
Reception
The Illuminati has received mixed reception from fans and critics alike. While the concept of a secret society of powerful superheroes working together behind the scenes was intriguing, some felt that the execution of the idea was lacking. Some fans criticized the group’s lack of diversity. Others felt that the group’s elitist attitude was unappealing, as they made decisions on behalf of the entire world without consulting anyone else.
However, there were also those who enjoyed the Illuminati’s stories and found them to be an interesting addition to the Marvel universe. Fans of the individual members enjoyed seeing their favorite characters work together in a new and different way. The Illuminati’s involvement in major events, such as World War Hulk and the incursions that threatened to destroy the multiverse, added a new level of complexity to the Marvel universe.
Critics praised the group’s appearances in New Avengers and other titles, with many feeling that writer Jonathan Hickman brought new life to the concept. They appreciated the exploration of the group’s dynamics and the complexities of their decisions. The portrayal of the Illuminati as flawed individuals with differing viewpoints was seen as a refreshing change from the typical portrayal of superheroes as infallible and always in agreement.
Overall, while the Illuminati may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they have left an impact on the Marvel universe and continue to be a source of fascination for fans and critics alike.
Trivia
The Illuminati are a fascinating group of superheroes with a rich history in Marvel Comics. Here are some interesting trivia facts about them:
- The original members were Iron Man (Tony Stark), Mister Fantastic (Reed Richards), Namor the Sub-Mariner, Black Bolt, Professor X (Charles Xavier), and Doctor Strange.
- The group was formed in secret in the aftermath of the Kree-Skrull War, with the goal of preventing future large-scale threats to Earth.
- The Illuminati made their first appearance in New Avengers #7, published in 2005, written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by David Finch.
- Iron Man was the founder of the group, and his idea for the Illuminati was inspired by the idea of the United Nations.
- The group was responsible for exiling the Hulk from Earth after he went on a rampage in World War Hulk.
- Black Panther initially refused to join the Illuminati because he believed that secrecy and elitism were dangerous.
- The Illuminati were the focus of a one-shot special called New Avengers: Illuminati, which explored their origins and early adventures.
- The Illuminati’s actions during the incursions led to a rift between them and the Avengers, particularly Captain America.
- The group has had several different lineups over the years, with various members joining and leaving.
- In the Marvel Comics universe, the Illuminati were disbanded following their actions during the incursions.
- The group’s history has been retconned several times over the years, with different writers adding their own spin on the team’s origins and activities.
- The group make a cameo appearance in Planet Hulk, consisting of Iron Man, Doctor Strange, Mister Fantastic and Black Bolt.
- The group appear in the film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022). This version of the group come from Earth-838 and consists of its versions of Karl Mordo, Captain Peggy Carter, Black Bolt, Maria Rambeau (Captain Marvel), Reed Richards, and Charles Xavier. Their universe’s Stephen Strange was also a member until the Illuminati executed him for drawing power from the Darkhold and replaced him with Mordo.
- The existence of the Illuminati was revealed to the general public during the World War Hulk storyline, and the full extent of their actions and involvement with the incursions was revealed after the formation of the Cabal.
- While the name “Illuminati” appears to have begun as an informal name of the group used by Iron Man, the rest of the members have also adapted the name, and it grew into the “official” name of the group.
