The King in Black: Venom’s Darkest and Most Cosmic Foe
The King in Black, also known as Knull, is one of the most terrifying and powerful villains introduced in Marvel Comics in recent years. As the dark god of the symbiotes, Knull's very existence ties into the deep history of the Marvel Universe, tapping into cosmic horror and the ongoing saga of Venom.
First Appearance and Origin Story
Knull made his official comic debut in Venom #3 (2018) as the overarching antagonist of Donny Cates' run on the series, Knull is responsible for the creation of the symbiotes and represents an existential threat not just to Venom, but to the entire Marvel Universe. His introduction redefined the lore surrounding the symbiotes, linking their origins to an ancient, malevolent deity who predates the universe itself. Knull is depicted as a primordial being who was present before the creation of the universe. He existed in the void, and when the Celestials began bringing light to the cosmos, Knull saw this as an affront to his dark domain.
Enraged, Knull forged the first symbiote, a living weapon known as the All-Black Necrosword, which he used to kill Celestials and wage war against creation itself. This sword would later be wielded by Gorr the God Butcher, linking Knull’s influence to events long before his formal debut.
As Knull’s influence grew, he created the symbiotes, originally intending for them to be soldiers in his army of darkness. However, the symbiotes eventually rebelled against him, trapping him within their homeworld, which became known as the planet Klyntar (the symbiote word for "cage"). There, Knull remained imprisoned for eons, waiting for his chance to return.
Key Relationships and Interactions
Knull's relationship with Eddie Brock and Venom is the driving force of his story arc. Knull sees Venom, and the symbiotes in general, as mere extensions of his will. To him, Venom is nothing more than a tool, and when Eddie Brock first encounters Knull, he is overwhelmed by the sheer scope of Knull's power. This dynamic is central to their interactions, as Eddie must find a way to break free of Knull’s overwhelming influence while protecting his son, Dylan Brock, who plays a key role in the struggle against Knull.
In Venom #6 (2018), it’s revealed that Eddie's symbiote has been keeping secrets from him about its true origins, and that it was created by Knull to serve his dark purposes. This revelation deepens the connection between Venom and Knull, and sets the stage for their inevitable confrontation. Knull is depicted as the ultimate threat to Eddie’s freedom and identity, casting a shadow over everything Venom does in the series.
The King in Black Event
Knull’s story reaches its climax in the King in Black crossover event (2020-2021), where Knull invades Earth with an army of symbiote dragons and enslaves some of Marvel's mightiest heroes, including the X-Men, Avengers, and even gods like Thor. The event sees Knull finally freed from his prison and descending upon Earth with the intention of plunging the universe back into darkness.
Knull’s arrival is marked by chaos, as he easily overwhelms Earth’s defenses and traps the world in a symbiotic cocoon, plunging it into perpetual night. His ability to control symbiotes allows him to corrupt even the strongest heroes, turning them into his puppets. Throughout the event, Knull shows just how vast his power is—he is more than just a villain for Venom to battle; he is a cosmic threat on par with the likes of Thanos and Galactus.
However, it is Venom who ultimately plays the key role in Knull’s defeat. Eddie Brock, empowered by the cosmic Enigma Force (the source of the powers of Captain Universe), takes on Knull in a final battle. Eddie, now wielding godlike power, uses the Enigma Force to sever Knull’s connection to the symbiotes and destroy him, ending his reign of terror and freeing the universe from his control. This battle not only serves as a satisfying conclusion to the King in Black saga but also solidifies Venom as a true hero on a cosmic scale.
Knull’s Importance as an Antagonist
Knull's introduction to the Marvel Universe has had a significant impact on the symbiote mythos and the wider Marvel cosmic landscape. As the creator of the symbiotes, Knull represents the ultimate source of their power and darkness. His presence reshapes the understanding of Venom’s abilities, revealing that the symbiote’s inherent violence and hunger stem from its connection to Knull.
More than that, Knull serves as a reflection of the themes of control and freedom that have long been central to Venom’s character. Eddie Brock has always struggled with his symbiote, trying to maintain control over it while also finding purpose through their bond. Knull, as the literal embodiment of control and domination, represents everything Eddie and the Venom symbiote strive to overcome.
Interesting Stories Featuring Knull
Knull’s appearances are scattered across several key storylines. Aside from Venom and King in Black, his influence is felt in earlier comics, such as Silver Surfer: Black (2019), where the Silver Surfer faces off against Knull in the distant past. This cosmic adventure further explores Knull’s deep connections to the universe, positioning him as a long-standing force of darkness.
In Web of Venom: Carnage Born (2018), Knull’s influence is also linked to Carnage, as Cletus Kasady seeks to awaken Knull from his prison. The ties between Knull and Carnage deepen the already dark and violent nature of the symbiote storyline, positioning Knull as a lurking threat long before his full arrival.
The King in Black, Knull, has rapidly become one of Marvel’s most significant villains, blending cosmic horror with the deep mythology of the symbiotes. His immense power, terrifying presence, and dark origins make him a truly formidable foe. As a villain who challenges not just Venom but the entire Marvel Universe, Knull represents the ultimate test of heroism in the face of overwhelming darkness.
For more read Donny Cates’ King in Black. Support your local comic book store.
Excellent piece!