Even after one year, the fates of many beloved characters in the new Ultimate Universe remain a mystery. The opening pages of The Ultimates #9 reveal something of the life of this world’s Luke Cage. In this case, however, the answers only provoke more questions.
Written by Deniz Camp, with art by Chris Allen, Ultimates #9 opens in the not-too-distant past of 2005. It is here that a teenage Luke Cage is accused of a crime he didn’t commit and advised to plead guilty to win leniency. However, while the Power Man of Earth-616 eventually won his freedom after being unjustly imprisoned, this variant is still incarcerated in 2025.
The first three pages of Ultimates #9 may be viewed below.
First appearing in Marvel Comics in 1972, Luke Cage was the first Black superhero to headline their own solo series. While initially inspired by the Blaxploitation films of the time, his comic explored issues like police brutality and prison reform. This was due to his origin story, where he was subjected to experiments that gave him superhuman strength and unbreakable skin while in jail. Luke Cage went on to clear his name, establish a business, and join the Avengers.
The first three pages of Ultimates #9 offer a modern update on this story. Reference is made to Luke Cage being held in a for-profit prison, which is a hot topic in modern America. However, it is unclear from the preview if this Power Man has acquired powers or not. However, the synopsis describes his life as a “success story,” and notes that he has been “quietly sabotaging the Maker’s Council from behind bars.” This establishes this Luke Cage as a hero, regardless of whether he has superpowers.
Ultimates #9 arrives in comic shops everywhere on February 5, 2025.