Disney+ Era Marvel TV Shows Ranked

From the classic Incredible Hulk TV series to network hits like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the gritty Netflix street-level shows introducing characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have long been a fertile ground for small screen adaptations. While previous efforts to integrate live-action TV shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faced challenges—think Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—2021 marked a pivotal shift. Marvel Studios launched a new era by integrating their flagship streaming service, Disney+, with series that are intricately linked to the multi-billion dollar film franchise that defines Marvel Studios.

As the charming Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man becomes the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television series that have paved the way. Much like the Avengers sharing shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel experts at IGN have convened to rank all 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows to date, culminating in a comprehensive list. Stay tuned for the addition of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man once the series concludes.

Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked

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12. Secret Invasion

Disney+It's surprising to discuss a Secret Invasion series that fell short of expectations, unanimously ranking as the weakest Marvel TV series yet. In the comics, Secret Invasion is a cornerstone event, reshaping the Marvel Universe. However, this adaptation, directed by Ali Selim, who openly admitted to not reading the source material, missed the mark. While the MCU has thrived on fresh interpretations of iconic stories, Secret Invasion struggled to capture the essence of its comic counterpart.

The series aimed to evoke the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, focusing on Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) combating a Skrull invasion. Yet, it was hindered by sluggish pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt killing off of a cherished female character, and the introduction of a peculiar new superpowered character unlikely to return, leaving Secret Invasion at the bottom of our MCU TV rankings.

11. Echo

Disney+Echo marks a significant improvement over Secret Invasion, securing the 11th spot. Despite its challenges, it's far from the criticism faced by the lowest-ranked show. Alaqua Cox reprises her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, exploring her journey back to the reservation, navigating her powers, past, and complex ties with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the villain who raised her.

Though Echo suffered from a reduced episode count, leaving some viewers wanting more, it boasts compelling action sequences, notably the thrilling opening fight with Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Additionally, it broke ground with its predominantly indigenous cast and crew, offering a unique, emotionally rich narrative within the MCU. While not as impactful as higher-ranked entries, Echo is a noteworthy addition to the Marvel universe.

10. Moon Knight

Disney+Moon Knight, starring Oscar Isaac, might surprise fans by landing so low in our rankings. This series delves into the tumultuous life of Marc Spector, whose multiple personalities add depth to this dark antihero tale filled with mystery and action. Drawing inspiration from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's Legion, Moon Knight offers a surrealist take on the superhero genre.

The introduction of Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy) added a fresh face to the MCU, becoming a highlight of the series. With a strong supporting cast including F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the villainous Dr. Arthur Harrow, Moon Knight showcased potential but didn't quite soar to the top of our list or secure a second season.

9. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Disney+The Falcon and the Winter Soldier had the potential to be a soaring success but faced challenges in taking flight. With Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprising their roles from the Marvel films, the series benefited from their undeniable chemistry. However, it was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip timeline, and an emphasis on espionage over 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 schedule, allowing WandaVision to take the debut slot. The impact of the global health crisis on the show's production, which was halted from March to August 2020, is uncertain, but it undoubtedly affected the final product. Despite its challenges, the series has contributed significantly to the MCU's narrative, particularly influencing this year's Thunderbolts film.