From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the groundbreaking network hit Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the gritty Netflix street-level shows that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have long been a rich source of inspiration for television adaptations. Previous efforts to weave these live-action TV shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe often met with mixed results—remember shows like Runaways and Cloak and Dagger? However, 2021 marked a pivotal shift as Marvel Studios launched a new era by populating Disney+ with a series of shows intricately connected to their blockbuster film franchise.
As the charming Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man swings onto our screens as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television series that paved the way. Much like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel aficionados at IGN have gathered to rank all 12 of the Disney+ Marvel TV shows released so far. Stay tuned for the addition of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man once the series concludes.
Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked
13 Images
12. Secret Invasion
Disney+It's truly surprising to discuss how Secret Invasion, despite its significance in Marvel Comics lore, ended up being unanimously ranked as the weakest series in Marvel TV's lineup. This adaptation, meant to echo the monumental comic event, fell flat as director Ali Selim openly admitted to not drawing from the source material, believing it unnecessary for storytelling. While the MCU has thrived on fresh interpretations, Secret Invasion lacked the depth to make a lasting impact.
The series attempted to channel the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, focusing on Nick Fury's (Samuel L. Jackson) efforts to thwart a Skrull invasion. However, it was marred by slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt and unsatisfying demise of a cherished female character, and the introduction of an oddly powered character likely to vanish from the MCU. Consequently, Secret Invasion finds itself at the bottom of our Disney+ Marvel TV rankings.
Echo
Disney+The leap in quality from Secret Invasion to Echo is significant. Although Echo lands in 11th place, it's far from being as critically panned as its predecessor. Alaqua Cox reprised her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, delivering an intimate and action-packed narrative about her journey back to her reservation. Here, she grapples with her powers, her past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the Daredevil villain who raised her.
Echo, like several recent Marvel Studios TV projects, suffered from a condensed episode count, leaving some viewers wanting more. Yet, it features standout action sequences, including an electrifying opening fight with Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Moreover, the series breaks new ground with its predominantly indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique, emotionally resonant addition to the MCU, despite not achieving the impact of higher-ranked shows.
Moon Knight
Disney+You might be surprised to find this Oscar Isaac-led series ranked so low, but Moon Knight failed to captivate our voters enough to climb higher. The series delves into the tumultuous life of Marc Spector, whose multiple personalities fuel a dark, enigmatic antihero tale filled with mystery and action. Moon Knight blends surreal elements reminiscent of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's own Legion.
True to Marvel's tradition, the series introduces a compelling new character, Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who emerges as a highlight by the series' end. With a robust cast including F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the antagonist Dr. Arthur Harrow, Moon Knight boasts strong performances but couldn't secure a spot at the top of our list or warrant a second season.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Disney+Despite its potential to soar, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier struggled to take flight. Starring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprising their roles from the Marvel films, the series benefited from the duo's undeniable chemistry. However, it was weighed down by murky ethical dilemmas, an overreliance on the Blip timeline, and a focus on espionage rather than the expected high-octane action.
As the second Marvel TV show on Disney+, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier was initially set to be the first released, but the COVID-19 pandemic reshuffled the lineup, allowing WandaVision to take the premiere slot. The global health crisis undoubtedly affected its production, which halted from March to August 2020. Despite these challenges, the series contributed significantly to the MCU's current narrative landscape, notably influencing this year's Thunderbolts film.
