Uncover the stories, status, and fan theories of the Warhammer 40K Primarchs, from Loyalist heroes to Traitor legends, here’s the latest on 40k’s most powerful icons!
Warhammer 40k Primarchs: Origins, Current Status, and Iconic Moments
Welcome to the galaxy-spanning saga of Warhammer 40K’s Primarchs, the Emperor of Mankind’s powerful, imperfect “sons” who left an indelible mark on the Imperium — and often a messy trail of chaos. Whether you’re new to the lore or a fan of all things grimdark, the tales of these Primarchs are packed with heroism, betrayal, and some intense family drama.
These larger-than-life figures started as paragons of the Emperor’s vision, leading the Space Marine legions in humanity’s greatest crusades… until some decided the Chaos Gods made more interesting friends.
What is a Primarch in Warhammer 40k?
Primarchs as the Emperor’s Demigod Sons
In the vast, chaotic universe of Warhammer 40k, where gods squabble over souls and humanity stands on the edge of oblivion, the Emperor’s Primarchs shine as semi-divine champions forged to lead humanity’s legions. Imagine creating twenty “superhumans” — each the size of a skyscraper lobby, genetically customized to be perfect in nearly every way — then scattering them across hostile planets by the whim of ancient gods who, let’s just say, weren’t thrilled with the Emperor’s plans.
These genetically engineered champions, known as Primarchs, each took on the traits and skills needed to rule on their own worlds, managing to make a significant mark despite their wildly different upbringings. Once reunited with the Emperor, each Primarch became a general, a role model, and sometimes a figure of fear for humanity’s finest: the Space Marines.
You’d think these guys would have it all figured out, right?
Not so much. For every heroic deed or noble sacrifice, there’s a Primarch who wound up horribly, tragically misguided. A “daddy issues” club if there ever was one, each Primarch is a mixed bag of brilliance, strength, and flaws as glaring as the Imperium’s bureaucratic gridlock.
The Role of Primarchs in Warhammer 40K Lore
In Warhammer 40k, each Primarch was designed to embody distinct virtues—some noble, some lethal, all potent. Take Roboute Guilliman of the Ultramarines: logical, methodical, and downright managerial. You could call him the office hero of the Imperium, balancing his tactical genius with the dedication of a workaholic CEO.
Then there’s the tragic Angron of the World Eaters, whose bloodlust was driven by the constant torment of the Butcher’s Nails, turning him into a tragic figure shackled by pain and rage. Each Primarch didn’t just lead; they shaped entire legions, armies so loyal they’d (and often did) follow their Primarchs into hell itself.
But here’s the twist: some virtues led straight to downfall. Fulgrim’s obsessive pursuit of perfection, for instance, spiraled into the clutches of Slaanesh, a Chaos god who loved Fulgrim’s self-love almost as much as Fulgrim did. Some of the strongest loyalties turned toxic, too; Horus Lupercal, once the Emperor’s chosen leader, is now synonymous with betrayal and, well, burning the galaxy for a power grab.
The Primarchs in 40k represent a cocktail of loyalty, virtue, hubris, and vengeance, all shaken up in a cosmic blender to form the most complex lineup of characters the Warhammer galaxy has ever seen.
How Many Primarchs Are There?
So, how many of these colossal figures did the Emperor cook up in his secret labs? Technically, there are 20. When first assembled, each Primarch commanded their own Space Marine legion, embodying traits that ranged from Lion El’Jonson’s honor-bound stoicism with the Dark Angels to Magnus the Red’s arcane prowess among the Thousand Sons.
Overview of the 20 Primarchs and Their Influence
Here’s a quick lineup: the “Loyalist” Primarchs — folks like Sanguinius, Rogal Dorn, and Vulkan — pledged allegiance to the Emperor, often paying with their lives in the galaxy-spanning Horus Heresy. Then we have the “Traitor” Primarchs, including Horus, Angron, and Mortarion, who turned against the Imperium and now lead dark legions under the Chaos gods.
Each Primarch set the tone for their legion and created a cultural and strategic stamp that endures even ten thousand years later. While many are gone, their impact on Warhammer 40K is far from over.
The Lost Primarchs Mystery
Ah, the Lost Primarchs — the legendary and elusive “two.” The Emperor’s experiment wasn’t as flawless as advertised, and records of the two 40k Primarchs were permanently erased, the only official note in the archives being that they “failed.”
Who were they? Why were they erased? Some say they crossed a line too far, even for the Emperor’s grand vision; others think they were wiped out as a lesson to the rest.
No one really knows, and Warhammer 40K fans have been spinning theories for years. This mystery remains one of the most tantalizing gaps in the Imperium’s history and fuels endless fan speculation about what could have been if these lost sons had survived.
Are Any Primarchs Alive in Warhammer 40K?
Oh, the million-credit question! Are any Primarchs still around to lead humanity to (another) glorious battle, or have they all been lost to the ages? The answer is both “yes” and “kind of.” Let’s start with the most famous among them: Roboute Guilliman, the steadfast Primarch of the Ultramarines, is alive and well… or at least, alive-ish.
Guilliman has been through it all, from leading the Great Crusade to getting mortally wounded by a daemon-infused sword, and then lying in stasis for a few millennia. It took the help of the tech-wizard Belisarius Cawl and some mysterious Eldar magic to revive him, but revive him they did!
Now, Guilliman’s back in action, working tirelessly to keep the Imperium intact in a galaxy gone mad.
Then there’s Lion El’Jonson, the Primarch of the Dark Angels, who is rumored to be stirring from a long “nap.” After the Horus Heresy, he returned to his Fortress-Monastery, where he’s been recovering from some serious injuries. Although he’s yet to officially reappear, there’s a chance we’ll see him return—especially given the current chaos in the galaxy.
For The Traitor side of things, there are Magnus, Mortarion, Angron, and rumors of Fulgrim all getting models for Warhammer 40k, with plenty more who could get models in the future!
Other Primarchs, like Vulkan of the Salamanders, are said to be alive in the “immortal but missing” category. Vulkan is what the Warhammer universe calls a “Perpetual,” meaning he can regenerate from almost anything.
So, technically, he’s out there somewhere, probably cooking up a storm or laying low until the Imperium needs a serious BBQ enthusiast with an indestructible hammer.
While many Primarchs are either dead or MIA, there’s always the thrill of rumor and speculation about future returns.
Loyalist Primarchs: Heroes of the Imperium
All 9 Loyalist Primarch Models From Forge World
Overview of Loyalist Primarchs and Their Legacy
In the Warhammer 40K universe, the Loyalist Primarchs are like the ultimate cosmic protectors. Handpicked (or rather hand-engineered) by the Emperor himself, each Primarch was crafted not just to lead but to embody unique qualities vital to defending the Imperium.
From uncompromising discipline to fiery resilience, the Loyalist Primarchs wield both brains and brawn in the eternal fight against Chaos. Although many of them are now missing, lost, or “retired” in one way or another, their legacies live on, inspiring new generations of Space Marines and keeping the Imperium’s enemies on edge.
Quick Profiles of Each Loyalist Primarch
Lion El’Jonson – Primarch of the Dark Angels
Lion El’Jonson is a bit of an enigma. Known for his stoic silence and sharp mind, the Lion is the calculating strategist of the Dark Angels, the First Legion. Raised in the monster-infested forests of Caliban, he grew up as a knight with a fierce dedication to duty.
Though he’s been MIA since the Horus Heresy, it’s rumored he’s currently taking an extended “nap” in the Rock, the Dark Angels’ mobile fortress-monastery. Should he awaken, he’ll undoubtedly bring his rigid code of honor and razor-sharp tactics to bear on the Imperium’s enemies once more.
Roboute Guilliman – Primarch of the Ultramarines
The quintessential leader, Roboute Guilliman, isn’t just a warrior; he’s a statesman and an intellectual. After being revived by a combination of Eldar magic and some high-tech tinkering by Belisarius Cawl, Guilliman has taken on the monumental task of holding the Imperium together in the 41st Millennium.
He’s enforcing the Codex Astartes, keeping rebellious factions in line, and even pushing back against the forces of Chaos. In a galaxy spiraling into madness, Guilliman’s vision and tactical genius are one of the Imperium’s best hopes for survival. Just don’t call him a “desk warrior”—this guy can throw down with the best of them.
What is the Name of the Ultramarine Primarch?
Inquiring minds want to know, and the Ultramarine Primarch is none other than Roboute Guilliman! Yes, that’s “Roboute” (row-boot), not “Robot,” although given his enhanced durability and no-nonsense attitude, it’s an understandable mix-up.
Guilliman leads the Ultramarines, a chapter famous for their love of order, tactical precision, and a book called the Codex Astartes—pretty much the rulebook of the Space Marines.
Leman Russ – Primarch of the Space Wolves
Ah, Leman Russ. The Primarch of the Space Wolves is as fierce as they come, with a knack for turning battlefields into chaotic, wolf-themed horror shows for his enemies. Known as the Emperor’s attack dog, Russ is a fierce, no-nonsense warrior who values loyalty above all else.
Although he mysteriously vanished on a self-imposed quest, many believe Russ will return when the Imperium faces its darkest hour. Until then, his wolves carry on his brutal legacy, charging into battle with tooth, claw, and chainsword.
Sanguinius – Primarch of the Blood Angels
The “Angel of the Imperium” isn’t just a title—Sanguinius had literal angel wings and the soul to match. He was noble, compassionate, and impossibly brave. During the Horus Heresy, he faced Horus himself in a final duel, sacrificing his life to protect the Emperor.
His death didn’t just scar the Imperium; it left a permanent mark on his Blood Angels, who still suffer from a genetic curse known as the Red Thirst. Sanguinius’ legacy lives on as a symbol of ultimate sacrifice, and his sons honor him by fighting on with unmatched fury.
Vulkan – Primarch of the Salamanders
Vulkan, the forge master and unbreakable heart of the Salamanders, is all about protecting humanity. Known for his smithing skills and unshakable compassion, Vulkan emphasized that his warriors defend the weak and bring hope to the darkest corners of the galaxy.
He’s also a Perpetual, meaning he can’t really die, although he has been MIA since the Heresy. His return is a favorite topic of speculation among Salamanders fans, who await the day when their primarch will return to lead them once more.
Corvus Corax – Primarch of the Raven Guard
Corax, the stealthy and shadowy Primarch of the Raven Guard, is a master of guerrilla tactics. He and his legion prefer to strike from the darkness, hitting hard and fast before melting away. His time in the Heresy took a toll, leaving him haunted and full of regrets.
After the catastrophic failure of a genetic experiment meant to rebuild his legion, he vanished into the Warp, possibly seeking redemption. Now he’s rumored to haunt the realm of Chaos, waiting for the right moment to re-emerge.
Rogal Dorn – Primarch of the Imperial Fists
Rogal Dorn, the unyielding master of fortifications, is a fan of walls, both literal and metaphorical. Known for his implacable will and iron discipline, Dorn defended Terra itself during the Horus Heresy. His strategic mind and devotion to the Emperor are legendary.
Though he eventually met a mysterious fate, his skeletal hand remains a relic of the Imperial Fists, inspiring them to stand firm, no matter the odds.
Ferrus Manus – Primarch of the Iron Hands
Ferrus Manus, the Gorgon, brought a mechanical precision to the Iron Hands. Known for his metal hands (a souvenir from wrestling a metallic beast), Manus valued strength and perfection. Tragically, he fell in the Heresy, betrayed by Fulgrim.
His death marked a turning point for the Iron Hands, who have since pursued ruthless self-improvement, seeing organic weakness as a flaw to be corrected.
Jaghatai Khan – Primarch of the White Scars
Jaghatai Khan, the enigmatic and fierce Primarch of the White Scars, is the Imperium’s ultimate lightning-fast cavalryman and one of the most unique figures among his Primarch brothers. Raised on the planet Chogoris, a world of vast steppes and brutal nomadic tribes, Khan grew up as a master of guerrilla warfare and hit-and-run tactics.
Traitor Primarchs: The Fallen Warriors of Chaos
All 9 Traitor Primarch Models From Forge World
Overview of the Traitor Primarchs and Their Fall
The Traitor Primarchs weren’t always the galaxy’s worst nightmare. Originally, these genetically engineered sons were loyal commanders, gifted with unique skills and bound to the Emperor’s vision. However, a combination of personal grievances, manipulations from Chaos gods, and a little brotherly rivalry led them down darker paths.
Fueled by ambition, jealousy, and just a touch of existential dread, these Primarchs abandoned the Imperium during the Horus Heresy. Embracing Chaos in its many, many forms, they transformed into monstrous figures of terror, spreading discord and havoc across the stars. Here’s a look at the rogues’ gallery that the Imperium wishes it could forget.
Quick Profiles of Each Traitor Primarch
Horus Lupercal – The Warmaster and Catalyst of Heresy
Once the Emperor’s favorite, Horus was given the title of Warmaster, which might as well have been a flashing sign for “doomed to betray.” Horus was ambitious and genuinely believed he could improve the Imperium, but after a near-death experience, Chaos wormed its way into his heart.
Convinced he’d been betrayed by his father, Horus turned against the Emperor and led the Heresy, kicking off a brutal civil war. His story ends on a tragic note, with Horus defeated and completely erased from existence by the Emperor himself, his very soul obliterated to prevent Chaos from claiming it.
Magnus the Red – Primarch of the Thousand Sons
Magnus the Red is the galaxy’s most tragic bookworm. As Primarch of the Thousand Sons, he delved into the warp and sorcery to protect and advance humanity. However, his obsession with forbidden knowledge and psychic power put him at odds with the Emperor, who was not into the “magic” thing.
When Magnus tried to warn his father of Horus’s betrayal via a psychic message, he accidentally caused major damage on Terra. In return, the Emperor ordered the Space Wolves to bring him to heel, leading to Magnus’s eventual surrender to Tzeentch, the Chaos god of change.
He transformed into a towering Daemon Prince and now resides in the Eye of Terror, but his tragic end still makes fans wish he could have just picked up a hobby.
Fulgrim – The Perfected Daemon of Slaanesh
Fulgrim started as a Primarch obsessed with beauty, excellence, and artistry. This obsession, unfortunately, made him a prime target for Slaanesh, the Chaos god of excess and indulgence. Fulgrim’s descent was a seductive one, as he was slowly corrupted by his desire for perfection, which culminated in him killing his close friend Ferrus Manus.
Over time, Fulgrim fully embraced Slaanesh’s influence, becoming a four-armed Daemon Prince with a penchant for grandiose speeches and displays of elegance. Fulgrim now resides in a realm of endless indulgence, embodying the most disturbing aspects of his twisted ideals.
Angron – The Bloodthirsty Daemon of Khorne
Angron’s life was never a happy one. Captured as a slave and forced to fight as a gladiator, he endured unimaginable torture through “Butcher’s Nails” implants, which ramped up his aggression to unbearable levels.
Resentful of the Emperor for rescuing him from a doomed uprising, Angron’s rage found a home with Khorne, the god of blood and slaughter. Angron’s transformation into a Daemon Prince of Khorne amplified his rage to unholy levels, and now he’s basically a giant engine of destruction.
He’s not the most strategic of the Traitor Primarchs, but his berserker fury has led to some of the bloodiest massacres in the galaxy.
Perturabo – The Siege Master of Chaos
Perturabo, Primarch of the Iron Warriors, always felt unappreciated and overworked, like the galaxy’s grumpiest engineer. Tasked with building, sieging, and defending endless fortifications, he grew bitter and resentful.
Chaos offered him validation and an escape, which he gladly accepted. Now a Daemon Prince, Perturabo is still the tactical genius he always was, just with a lot more rage and bitterness. He commands the Iron Warriors, who specialize in laying siege to enemy fortresses with a level of sadistic joy.
Lorgar Aurelian – The Apostle of Chaos
Lorgar, Primarch of the Word Bearers, was always a little too religious for the Emperor’s taste. When his over-the-top worship of the Emperor was slapped down, he felt lost and betrayed. Seeking guidance, he found the gods of Chaos, whom he took to with zeal.
Now a Daemon Prince of Chaos Undivided, Lorgar is the galaxy’s top heretic, preaching the virtues of Chaos with the conviction of a true believer. His Word Bearers are responsible for spreading the gospel of Chaos, ensuring that his “faith” reaches every corner of the galaxy.
Konrad Curze – The Nightmarish Tyrant of Terror
Konrad Curze, known as the Night Haunter, never had a rosy outlook on life. Raised on a crime-ridden planet, he developed a brutal sense of justice, punishing wrongdoers with unmatched ruthlessness.
His visions of a dark future for the Imperium made him a perfect candidate for Chaos, and he became one of its most sadistic enforcers. His twisted sense of justice and delight in fear tactics made him infamous.
Though killed by an assassin, his legacy of terror lives on through the Night Lords, who revel in fear and chaos as their father once did.
Mortarion – The Plague Lord of Nurgle
Mortarion, the Primarch of the Death Guard, had a strong distaste for all things psychic. Unfortunately, his rejection of the Emperor’s ideals pushed him into the welcoming arms of Nurgle, the god of pestilence.
Mortarion’s transformation into a Daemon Prince cemented his role as the lord of decay, and now he spreads Nurgle’s infections across the galaxy. His Death Guard are famed for their endurance and diseased resilience, leaving a trail of rot in their wake.
Alpharius Omegon – The Twin Masters of Deception
Alpharius and his twin Omegon lead the Alpha Legion, a mysterious group known for secrecy and misdirection. The Alpha Legion’s true loyalties are one of Warhammer 40k’s great mysteries. While officially considered traitors, Alpharius and Omegon have their own motives, which could include a secret mission from the Emperor himself.
Their current whereabouts and allegiance are unknown, and the galaxy is left guessing at their next move.
Warhammer 40K Primarch Miniatures: Collectibles and Models
Forge World and Games Workshop Models of Primarchs
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For anyone captivated by the legendary figures of Warhammer 40K, the Primarch miniatures from Forge World and Games Workshop are more than just collectibles. These models bring the towering, mythic Primarchs into hand-held form, making them a prized possession for both collectors and tabletop gamers.
You’ll find these miniatures available primarily through Forge World, known for its high-end Warhammer 40k resin models, and Games Workshop, which crafts more affordable, highly detailed plastic versions.
Loyalist Primarch Miniatures
The Loyalist Primarch models are some of the most striking in the Warhammer universe. If you’re a fan of the Emperor’s golden boys, then these loyalist models will absolutely appeal to you:
- Roboute Guilliman: The poster Primarch of the loyalists and currently active Lord Commander of the Imperium, Guilliman’s miniature by Games Workshop is a fan favorite. The model captures his calm, calculated leadership style, with his armor polished to Ultramarine perfection and the Emperor’s flaming sword ready to deliver judgment.
- Easy to use
- Good product for use
- Good performance
- Good quality
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- Lion El’Jonson: The Lion’s Forge World miniature captures his stoic demeanor and deadly elegance. Complete with intricate armor and his iconic sword, this figure is perfect for fans who love the mysterious, brooding leader of the Dark Angels. Rumor has it that the Lion is back in action, so this model might just be a preview of the action-packed lore to come.
- This miniature makes an incredible centrepiece for any Dark Angels army.
- Painters will enjoy the level of detail and the different textures that make up his robes, armour, and weapons.
- Meanwhile, gamers will enjoy setting the Lion upon the enemies of the Imperium and proving his prowess as a duelist.
- This kit comprises 43 plastic components, and is supplied with a 60mm Citadel Round base.
- This miniature is supplied unpainted and requires assembly – we recommend using Citadel Plastic Glue and Citadel Colour paints.
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- Vulkan: The Primarch of the Salamanders, Vulkan’s miniature is as imposing as you’d expect from a character rumored to be unkillable. His armor glows with intricate, dragon-inspired details, and he wields the hammer Dawnbringer, making this model a top pick for fans of the flame-wielding Salamanders Legion. However, his model is just for Horus Heresy.
These loyalist models are celebrated for their balance between imposing detail and functional design. They bring the nobility and determination of the Imperium’s finest to life, making them highly sought-after for anyone who values heroic dedication and grit.
Traitor Primarch Miniatures
If you’re drawn to the darker side of Warhammer 40k, the Traitor Primarch miniatures bring a haunting, corrupted beauty to the table. Here are a few standout figures:
- Fulgrim: Known for his obsession with perfection and the excesses of Slaanesh, Fulgrim’s model is every bit as elegant and sinister as his reputation. From his ornate armor to his twisted, daemon-infused form, this miniature is a must-have for those who appreciate the tragic fall of a once-great leader.
- Angron: The brutal, bloodthirsty Primarch of the World Eaters, Angron’s Daemon Prince form has become a fan favorite. With his massive chainsword and butcher’s nails, this model captures his rage and unrestrained violence. If there was ever a model that screamed chaos incarnate, it’s Angron.
- Games Workshop - Warhammer 40,000 - World Eaters: Angron Daemon Primarch Of Khorne
- The monstrous Daemon Primarch of Khorne, a legendary Lords of War pick to lead your World Eaters army
- Can be built with two head options and a combination of twisted nucerean plates
- Rip enemies with a massive demon sword and colossal axe
- These figures are supplied unpainted and require assembly, we recommend using Citadel plastic glue and Citadel Color paints.
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- Mortarion: Representing the Death Guard, Mortarion’s miniature is a work of decaying art. Covered in plague-ridden armor, wielding his scythe Silence, Mortarion’s model is perfect for fans who lean into the grim, disease-laden aesthetic of Nurgle. His model strikes a balance between intricate detail and grotesque rot, capturing his descent into daemonhood.
- The third Primarch to be rendered in plastic, and a fantastic centrepiece model.
- Options for 2 different poses: his scythe in his right hand and lantern in left, or reversed providing a dynamic fighting pose.
- Covered in grisly details, this is a miniature that provides a huge amount of opportunity for any painter.
- Capable of easily bringing down an Imperial Knight, definitely worth adding for his strength alone.
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Each of these traitor miniatures offers a taste of the dark power of the Chaos Gods and the twisted paths these once-noble leaders have taken. They’re popular among collectors who love a model with as much lore as a visual menace.
How Tall Are the Primarchs?
Ever wondered what it’d be like to bump into a Primarch at a party? Spoiler: you’d be looking up, way up. Primarchs, in Warhammer 40k, aren’t just ordinary humans—they’re engineered to be nothing short of godlike giants. The average Primarch stands somewhere between 10 to 12 feet tall. To put it in perspective, your average Space Marine, already towering over mere mortals, is about seven feet tall in full armor. Primarchs make them look like action figures.
Their immense size is part of what makes them feel so legendary. Each Primarch’s height is unique, depending on genetic traits, armor design, and sometimes even their physical condition after chaotic “enhancements.” Mortarion, for example, gets a bit of extra height with those haunting wings, and Magnus the Red’s towering stature is amplified by his single Cyclopean eye and magical aura.
When it comes to miniatures, Games Workshop has translated this titanic scale as faithfully as possible, creating Primarch models that stand tall among other figures on the tabletop. Holding a Primarch miniature, you can get a sense of the presence they must carry in battle—a true embodiment of godhood among the stars.
Introduction to JOYTOY’s Warhammer 40k Primarchs Line
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If you’ve ever dreamed of having a Primarch on your desk or bookshelf, JOYTOY has made those dreams come true. Known for their high-quality action figures, they have recently expanded into the Warhammer 40k universe and now even offer the Primarchs.
This new line of action figures brings these iconic characters to life in a way that’s perfect for both collectors and fans.
Buy Horus The JOYTOY Primarch Action Figures
The Current Status of Primarchs in Warhammer 40K
Primarchs in the 41st Millennium
It’s a chaotic galaxy out there, and in the 41st millennium, the Primarchs who have stuck around are either leading the Imperium through dark times or quietly sowing dread from the shadows. Let’s start with the big blue boy himself, Roboute Guilliman, Primarch of the Ultramarines. Guilliman was never one to stay idle, but after a few millennia in a stasis coma from a poisoned Chaos blade, things got interesting.
Revived by the tech wizardry of Archmagos Belisarius Cawl, he was promptly thrown into the worst chaos the galaxy has ever seen—literally. He now holds the titles of Imperial Regent and Lord Commander, doing his best to steer the Imperium through a dark age filled with xenos threats, cultist uprisings, and, of course, that pesky warp rift dividing the galaxy in two.
And then, there’s the twist no one saw coming: Lion El’Jonson, the legendary and somewhat mysterious Primarch of the Dark Angels, is back. After snoozing in stasis within The Rock (the remains of his old homeworld turned fortress-monastery), the Lion has awoken in a universe he hardly recognizes.
The Lion now fights alongside Guilliman, but if you think these two are best friends, you might want to think again. Known for his solitary nature, the Lion’s reappearance raises a few eyebrows and a lot of questions—mainly, what does he think of his brother Guilliman’s vision for the Imperium? There’s bound to be friction between these two powerhouses, and fans are eagerly waiting to see where it all goes.
Rumors are also swirling about other potential reappearances. While these whispers are unconfirmed, they’re persistent. For example, Leman Russ of the Space Wolves was last seen vanishing into the warp on a mysterious quest, hinting that he may one day return from his “big hunt.”
And Jaghatai Khan of the White Scars reportedly pursued Dark Eldar through the Webway and could be riding back into the galaxy with a vengeance. There’s even talk of Vulkan, the perpetually unkillable Primarch of the Salamanders, possibly resurfacing in some heroic blaze, though specifics are scarce. With every rumor, fans’ hopes rise just a little more.
Speculative Future of the Primarchs
For every confirmed sighting, there are ten fan theories. Most fans wonder about the Lost Primarchs, those two mysterious figures scrubbed from Imperial records. Theories abound—some think they were destroyed for some unspeakable heresy, while others believe they might be hiding somewhere in the galaxy, quietly amassing power or protecting the Imperium in secret.
Some fans even speculate they’ll return as wild cards in the current conflict, potentially altering the balance of power on a cosmic scale.
Community Perspectives and Fan Theories on the Primarchs
Popular Fan Theories: Will More Primarchs Return?
The Warhammer 40K fanbase is famously… imaginative. When it comes to Primarch theories, you’ll find everything from thought-provoking takes to ideas best classified as “chaos-born.” Let’s dive into some of the best theories currently circulating, starting with the juicy mystery of the Lost Primarchs.
These two enigmatic figures—known only as the “Forgotten” and the “Purged”—were erased from Imperial records long ago, but fans haven’t stopped speculating about their true fates.
Some theories suggest that the Lost Primarchs could return to the lore as unexpected saviors or tragic villains. Picture this: they emerge from the shadows as rogue elements, wielding new, mysterious powers and a vastly different perspective on the Emperor’s vision.
Others think they were exiled for crimes against the Imperium, implying a darker return, possibly as powerful allies to Chaos. Some fans even speculate they might be hidden by the Emperor himself, only to be unleashed when the Imperium faces its darkest hour.
It’s the ultimate game of galactic hide-and-seek, with stakes big enough to reshape the whole galaxy. But it’s not just the Lost Primarchs fans are excited about.
The potential return of existing Primarchs—especially the Loyalists—also keeps the forums ablaze. Imagine Leman Russ thundering back from the Warp with a wolf pack the size of a fleet or Jaghatai Khan busting out of the Webway with some personal grudges against the Dark Eldar.
Fans hope for a “Primarch reunion” that sees each loyalist unite for an Imperium-wide showdown with Chaos, a sort of galactic family therapy with plasma guns and power armor. And if there’s anything fans love, it’s watching these titanic figures throw down against one another or join forces to save the day—ideally, both in one blockbuster plotline.
Memes and Fan Jokes about the Primarchs
Now, it wouldn’t be the 40K fandom without a bit of humor. The Primarchs may be godlike, but fans make sure they’re not above a good roast. One enduring joke is the collective “daddy issues” the Primarchs seem to carry.
From Horus’ rebellious streak to Magnus’ endless need for validation (seriously, just stop with the forbidden magic, Magnus!), the “Emperor as the ultimate absentee father” theme is a fan favorite. Some memes paint the Emperor as a dad who went out for “milk” (read: galactic conquest) and forgot to come home, leaving the Primarchs to sort out their own issues in the messiest ways possible.
And then there’s the classic Lion El’Jonson meme: after snoozing in a secret chamber inside The Rock for centuries, he returns, only to find that his brothers have, well, taken creative liberties with the Imperium.
Cue the “disapproving big brother” jokes, with fans imagining the Lion as a stern dad figure constantly baffled by Guilliman’s administrative updates. Fans also love portraying Guilliman as the Imperium’s “overworked CEO,” stuck with a galaxy full of deadlines and underfunded space marines. “I didn’t ask for this” might as well be his unofficial motto.
Other fans enjoy poking fun at Fulgrim’s obsession with perfection—what better character for memes about impossible beauty standards? Imagine Fulgrim flipping his flawless hair and critiquing everyone’s armor choices mid-battle.
And, of course, Angron’s relentless rage is meme gold, often depicted as that one sibling who just needs to “chill out.” Nothing quite captures the essence of a Daemon Primarch like a meme where Angron, the supposed champion of rage, is told to maybe take up yoga or at least “count to ten.”
Final Thoughts On Warhammer 40k Primarchs
In the grand theater of Warhammer 40k, the Primarchs are the galaxy’s ultimate cast of tragic heroes, reluctant bureaucrats, and outright villains—and let’s face it, they’re also the galaxy’s ultimate drama magnets.
Whether they’re fiercely defending humanity or sowing chaos, these characters keep the Imperium and its foes on their toes. Fans can only guess at what lies ahead: maybe Leman Russ will storm back from wherever he’s been (no doubt with a solid backlog of wolf-based insults), or perhaps we’ll finally meet the infamous Lost Primarchs and see if they’re friends or foes.
So here’s to the Primarchs: may their returns be legendary, their sibling rivalries unending, and their fans forever ready to add a clever quip or two.
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
Who is your favorite of the Primarchs in Warhammer 40k? Will you be picking up any of the models?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
