Marvel Comics have a rich history of inspiring television adaptations, from the classic Incredible Hulk series to groundbreaking shows like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the gritty Netflix series featuring characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage. While previous efforts to link these shows to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have faced challenges—think of the likes of Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—Marvel Studios took a bold step in 2021. This marked a pivotal moment as Disney+ launched a series of shows intricately woven into the fabric of the MCU, enhancing the storytelling and connectivity of their multi-billion dollar franchise.
With the introduction of the charming Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man as the 13th Marvel show on Disney+ within just four years, it's an opportune time to reflect on the Marvel Studios television offerings that have preceded it. Much like the Avengers savoring shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, our team of Marvel aficionados at IGN convened to rank the 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows to date. Stay tuned for the inclusion of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man after its conclusion.
Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked
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12. Secret Invasion
Disney+It's almost surreal to discuss the Secret Invasion series, especially given its disappointing reception. This show, despite its basis on one of the most significant events in Marvel Comics history, failed to resonate with viewers. Director Ali Selim openly admitted to not relying on the source material, a decision that didn't pay off as hoped. While the MCU often thrives on innovative takes, Secret Invasion lacked the depth and impact of its comic counterpart. Attempting to mimic the espionage tone of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the series followed Nick Fury's (Samuel L. Jackson) efforts to thwart a Skrull invasion. Yet, its slow pacing, AI-generated opening, and the abrupt killing off of a beloved female character, along with an odd new superpowered character, left it at the bottom of our MCU TV rankings on Disney+.
Echo
Disney+The leap in quality from Secret Invasion to Echo is notable, securing Echo the 11th spot in our rankings. Alaqua Cox reprised her role from Hawkeye as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo, delving into an intimate and action-packed narrative about her return to the reservation and the challenges of balancing her powers, past, and relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio). Though the series was condensed, leaving some fans wanting more, Echo showcased thrilling action scenes, including a standout fight with Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Additionally, it was a pioneering show with a predominantly indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique, emotionally compelling addition to the MCU, despite not reaching the heights of our top-ranked series.
Moon Knight
Disney+It might surprise you to find Moon Knight, starring Oscar Isaac, at such a low rank. This series, exploring the multiple personalities of Marc Spector, offered a dark and mysterious take on the antihero, blending elements reminiscent of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's own Legion. While introducing a compelling new character in Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy) and featuring a strong cast including F. Murray Abraham and Ethan Hawke, Moon Knight didn't quite capture the imagination of our voters enough to secure a higher spot or warrant a second season.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Disney+Expected to soar, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier instead faced challenges in taking flight. Despite the undeniable chemistry between Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, who reprised their roles from the Marvel films, the series was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip's aftermath, and a shift towards espionage rather than the expected high-octane action. As the second Marvel TV show to premiere on Disney+, it was the first to be developed by Marvel Studios, originally slated for an earlier release before the COVID-19 pandemic shifted schedules, with WandaVision taking its place. The impact of the global health crisis on its production is undeniable, with filming halted from March to August 2020. Nevertheless, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier remains crucial for understanding the current MCU narrative, especially in relation to the upcoming Thunderbolts film.
