From the iconic *Incredible Hulk* TV series to the gripping *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, and the gritty Netflix shows that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have been a powerhouse of inspiration for television adaptations. While previous efforts to weave these live-action TV shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faltered—think *Runaways* and *Cloak and Dagger*—2021 marked a pivotal shift. Marvel Studios launched a new era by flooding Disney+ with series that are intricately linked to their blockbuster film franchise, setting a new standard for interconnected storytelling.
As the charming *Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man* swings onto our screens as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's the perfect moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television journey so far. Much like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel aficionados at IGN have gathered to rank all 12 of the Disney+ Marvel TV shows. 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
It's surreal to discuss Secret Invasion landing at the bottom of our rankings. In the comic world, 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 narrative. While the MCU has shown that fresh takes on iconic stories can be invigorating, Secret Invasion fell short. Attempting to capture the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the show followed Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) as he tackled a Skrull invasion. However, slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt killing off of a beloved female character, and the introduction of a bizarre new superpowered character that may never return, cemented its place as the least favored MCU series on Disney+.
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 narrative about her return to the reservation. Balancing her powers, past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the series offers a compelling look at her life. Despite a shortened run that left some fans wanting more, Echo boasts standout action sequences, including a thrilling opening fight against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). It's also a groundbreaking show, featuring a predominantly indigenous cast and crew. While it may not have the same impact as higher-ranked shows, Echo is a unique, emotionally charged entry into the MCU that's well worth watching.
Moon Knight
You might be surprised to see Moon Knight, starring Oscar Isaac, ranked so low. The series delves into the dark, complex world of Marc Spector, whose multiple personalities add layers of mystery and chaos to this antihero tale. Blending elements of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and the surrealism of Legion, Moon Knight offers a unique narrative. The introduction of Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy) as a standout character, alongside the performances of F. Murray Abraham as Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as Dr. Arthur Harrow, bolstered the show's cast. However, despite its strengths, Moon Knight didn't resonate enough with our voters to climb higher on the list or secure a second season.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Despite the potential for a soaring success, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier struggled to take flight. Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprised their roles from the Marvel films, and their chemistry was a highlight. However, the series was weighed down by murky moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip timeline, and an emphasis on espionage over action. As the second Marvel TV show on Disney+, it was initially set to be the first released, but the COVID-19 pandemic reshuffled the schedule, allowing WandaVision to debut first. The impact of the global health crisis on the show's production, which halted from March to August 2020, is uncertain, but it undoubtedly affected the final product. Despite its challenges, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier has become crucial for understanding the current MCU, particularly with its connections to this year's Thunderbolts film.
