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Knull

Knull is a Marvel Comics supervillain and cosmic deity associated with the symbiotes.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Knull is a fictional supervillain and cosmic deity in Marvel Comics, known as the God of the Symbiotes and the King in Black. Created by writer Donny Cates and artist Ryan Stegman, he first appeared in *Venom* vol. 4 #3 in 2018 and was later retroactively connected to earlier Marvel stories.

Publication history

Knull was created by Donny Cates and Ryan Stegman and debuted in *Venom* vol. 4 #3 in 2018. Marvel later retroactively identified him as the mysterious black-armored figure seen in *Thor: God of Thunder* #6 (2013).

Character overview

Knull is depicted as a primordial god of darkness who existed before the current universe. In Marvel continuity, he is strongly associated with the symbiotes and their hive mind.

Powers and abilities

Knull is described as possessing immense strength, durability, flight, shapeshifting, and control over darkness. He can also forge weapons and creatures from darkness and command symbiotes.

Story role

Knull functions as a major antagonist in Venom-related stories and broader Marvel cosmic events. He is especially associated with the *King in Black* storyline.

Key facts

  • Knull is a Marvel Comics supervillain and cosmic deity associated with the symbiotes.
  • He first appeared in *Venom* vol. 4 #3 in August 2018, created by Donny Cates and Ryan Stegman.
  • He is known as the God of the Symbiotes and the King in Black.
  • He is credited with creating the symbiote race and ruling them.
  • He wields the All-Black the Necrosword as his notable weapon.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Knull in Marvel Comics?
Knull is a Marvel Comics supervillain and cosmic deity known as the God of the Symbiotes.
When did Knull first appear?
He first appeared in *Venom* vol. 4 #3 in August 2018.
Who created Knull?
Knull was created by writer Donny Cates and artist Ryan Stegman.
What is Knull's connection to symbiotes?
He is credited with creating the symbiote race and ruling them as the King in Black.
What is Knull's main weapon?
He is associated with All-Black the Necrosword, a powerful weapon in Marvel continuity.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knull
    Supports: First appearance, creators, retroactive identification, and core character description.
  2. Marvel.com — https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/knull-god-symbiotes-klyntar-history-explained
    Supports: Official overview of Knull as the God of Symbiotes, his relation to the Klyntar/symbiotes, and general powers.
  3. Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knull
    Supports: Concise summary of Knull as a fictional Marvel character first introduced in 2018.