Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked

From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the groundbreaking Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the gritty Netflix shows that introduced heroes like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have long been a source of inspiration for television adaptations. While previous attempts to integrate these live-action series into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faltered—think Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—Marvel Studios marked a new era in 2021. This pivotal moment saw Disney+ flooded with new series that were intricately linked to the MCU, the multi-billion-dollar franchise that has defined modern superhero cinema.

As Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man swings onto our screens as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show within just four years, it's an ideal time to reflect on the Marvel Studios television series that have come before. Much like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel experts at IGN have gathered to rank the first 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows. We'll update the rankings to include Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man once the series concludes.

Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked

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12. Secret Invasion

It's perplexing to write about Secret Invasion given its significant place in Marvel Comics history, yet it landed at the bottom of our rankings. Director Ali Selim's disinterest in the source material was evident, as he openly admitted to not needing the comics to tell a good story. While the MCU has shown that fresh visions can revitalize iconic tales, Secret Invasion missed the mark. Attempting to channel the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the series followed Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) in his efforts to thwart a Skrull invasion. However, the slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt death of a beloved female character, and the introduction of a bizarre superpowered character that may never return, cemented Secret Invasion as the least favored MCU series on Disney+.

11. Echo

Echo marks a significant leap in quality from Secret Invasion, securing the 11th spot. Alaqua Cox reprises her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, delivering an intimate and action-packed story of her return to the reservation. Echo grapples with her powers, her past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the man who raised her. Despite a shortened episode run that left some fans wanting more, Echo features standout action, including a thrilling opening fight against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). It's also notable for its predominantly indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique, emotionally resonant addition to the MCU.

10. Moon Knight

Despite starring Oscar Isaac, Moon Knight finds itself lower on our list than some might expect. The series delves into the tumultuous life of Marc Spector, an antihero battling multiple personalities amidst action and mystery. Blending elements of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and the surrealist style of Legion, Moon Knight introduced audiences to Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), a standout new hero. With a strong supporting cast including F. Murray Abraham as Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as villain Dr. Arthur Harrow, Moon Knight was unable to soar to the top of our rankings or secure a second season.

9. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier had the potential to be a blockbuster, yet it struggled to reach its heights. Featuring the return of Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, the series was praised for their dynamic chemistry. However, it was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip's aftermath, and a shift towards espionage over aerial heroics. As the second Marvel TV show released on Disney+, it was initially set to be the first but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier laid important groundwork for future MCU narratives, notably this year's Thunderbolts film.