From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the gripping network shows like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the gritty Netflix series that introduced characters such as Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have consistently inspired a variety of small screen adaptations. While previous attempts to integrate these live-action TV shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faltered—think of shows like Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—Marvel Studios took a bold step in 2021. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new era as Disney+ was inundated with series that were intricately linked to the multi-billion dollar Marvel film franchise.
As we welcome the charming Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's the perfect time to reflect on the Marvel Studios television journey so far. Like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel aficionados at IGN gathered to rank all 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows to date. 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 a peculiar feeling to discuss a Secret Invasion series that not only disappointed but also received near-unanimous criticism as the lowest-ranked Marvel TV show to date. In the comics, Secret Invasion is a landmark event, yet the series seemed uninterested in its source material. Director Ali Selim openly admitted to not reading the comics, believing they were unnecessary for crafting a compelling story. While the MCU has thrived on creators' unique visions, Secret Invasion fell short.
Attempting to capture the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the series focused on Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) thwarting a Skrull invasion. However, sluggish pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt killing off of a beloved female character, and the introduction of an odd superpowered character that may never reappear, cemented its place at the bottom of the MCU TV series on Disney+.
Echo
Disney+The jump in quality from Secret Invasion to Echo is significant. Despite landing in the 11th spot, Echo received much less criticism. Alaqua Cox reprised her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, delivering an intimate and action-packed narrative about her return to the reservation. Here, she grapples with her powers, past, and complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the Daredevil villain who raised her.
Echo, like many later Marvel TV projects, faced a shortened episode count, leaving some viewers unsatisfied. Yet, it featured standout action sequences, including a thrilling opening fight against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). The series broke new ground with a predominantly indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique, emotionally resonant entry in the MCU, well worth watching despite its lower ranking.
Moon Knight
Disney+You might be surprised to find this Oscar Isaac-led series ranked so low, but Moon Knight didn't resonate strongly enough with our voters to climb higher. The series delves into the tumultuous life of Marc Spector, a man with multiple personalities navigating a world of mystery and chaos. Blending elements of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and the surrealism seen in Marvel's Legion, Moon Knight offers a dark, antiheroic journey.
The show introduced a new hero, Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who emerged as a fan favorite. 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 talent but couldn't secure a top spot or 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 was lauded for the duo's chemistry. However, it was weighed down by moral ambiguity, an over-reliance on the Blip timeline, and a focus on espionage rather than action.
Originally intended to be the first Marvel Studios TV show on Disney+, its release was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing WandaVision to take the debut spot. The global health crisis undoubtedly affected production, which was paused from March to August 2020. Nonetheless, the series has become crucial for understanding the MCU's current narrative, particularly with the upcoming Thunderbolts film.
