From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the gripping Netflix shows that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have been a rich source of inspiration for small screen adaptations. While previous efforts to weave these shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) often hit roadblocks—as seen with shows like Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—2021 marked a pivotal shift. Marvel Studios launched a new era by integrating their television series with the blockbuster MCU films on Disney+, their flagship streaming service.
As we welcome the delightful addition of Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man as the 13th Marvel show on Disney+ in just four years, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television journey so far. Here at IGN, our team of Marvel enthusiasts has gathered, much like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, to rank all 12 of the Disney+ Marvel TV shows. Stay tuned for the inclusion of 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 almost surreal to discuss a Secret Invasion series that didn't live up to its comic book legacy. In Marvel Comics, Secret Invasion is one of the most pivotal and transformative events. Yet, the TV adaptation fell flat, universally ranked as the lowest by our voting panel. Director Ali Selim openly admitted to not engaging with the source material, a decision that perhaps contributed to the series' lack of depth. Despite the MCU's history of successfully reimagining comic stories, Secret Invasion missed the mark.
Attempting to channel the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the series follows Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) as he combats a Skrull invasion. However, slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt and unsatisfying demise of a beloved female character, and the introduction of a peculiar new superpowered character that seemed unlikely to return, all contributed to its bottom ranking among MCU television series on Disney+.
11. Echo
Disney+
Echo marks a significant jump in quality from Secret Invasion. Despite landing in our 11th spot, it received a much warmer reception. Alaqua Cox reprises her role from Hawkeye as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo, delivering an intimate and action-packed narrative. The story follows Echo as she returns to her reservation, juggling her powers, her past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the man who raised her.
Like many recent Marvel Studios TV offerings, Echo faced challenges with a reduced episode count, leaving some fans wanting more. Nevertheless, it boasts standout action scenes, including an electrifying opening fight with Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Echo also broke new ground by featuring a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU, worthy of a watch despite its lower ranking.
10. Moon Knight
Disney+
You might be surprised to find this Oscar Isaac-led series ranked so low, but Moon Knight failed to resonate strongly enough with our voters. The series delves into the complex psyche of Marc Spector, weaving a dark and enigmatic tale of an antihero battling to retain his sanity amidst intense action. Drawing influences from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's own Legion, Moon Knight offers a surreal experience.
True to Marvel's tradition, the series introduces a new hero, Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who emerges as a fan favorite. With a robust cast including F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the villainous Dr. Arthur Harrow, Moon Knight promised much but couldn't secure a spot higher on our list or earn a second season.
9. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Disney+
Despite high expectations, 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 showcased their dynamic chemistry. However, it was weighed down by murky moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip timeline, and an overemphasis on espionage over thrilling action sequences.
As the second Marvel TV show to hit Disney+, it was initially set to be the first but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing WandaVision to debut first. The impact of the global health crisis on the production, which was paused from March to August 2020, is hard to quantify, but it undoubtedly influenced the final product. Despite its challenges, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier remains crucial for understanding the current MCU landscape, particularly in relation to the upcoming Thunderbolts film.
