From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the groundbreaking network success of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and the gritty Netflix series that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have consistently inspired captivating small-screen adaptations. Despite past struggles to seamlessly integrate live-action TV shows into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe—remember the challenges with shows like Runaways and Cloak and Dagger?—2021 marked a pivotal shift. Marvel Studios launched a new era by populating Disney+ with series that are intricately linked to their renowned multi-billion dollar film franchise.
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 legacy. Much like the Avengers savoring shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, the Marvel aficionados at IGN gathered to rank the first 12 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 surprising to discuss how a series based on the monumental Secret Invasion event in Marvel Comics history turned out to be the least favored among the Disney+ Marvel TV shows. Director Ali Selim openly admitted to not reading the comics, believing he didn't need them to craft a compelling narrative. While the MCU has shown that fresh takes on iconic stories can be successful, Secret Invasion fell short of expectations.
Aiming to capture the espionage essence reminiscent of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Secret Invasion centered on Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) thwarting a Skrull invasion. However, the series suffered from slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt demise of a beloved character, and the introduction of a peculiar superpowered character unlikely to return. This combination placed Secret Invasion at the bottom of the MCU television rankings on Disney+.
Echo
Echo marks a significant improvement over Secret Invasion, landing in the 11th position. Alaqua Cox reprises her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, delivering an intimate and action-packed narrative of her journey back to her reservation. Balancing her powers, past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), Echo's story unfolds amidst compelling action sequences, including a thrilling opening fight against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox).
Despite its shortened run leaving some fans wanting more, Echo stands out for its groundbreaking representation with a predominantly indigenous cast both in front of and behind the camera. While it may not have the same impact as higher-ranked shows, Echo is a unique, emotionally charged, and worthy addition to the MCU.
Moon Knight
You might be surprised to see this Oscar Isaac-led series ranked so low, but Moon Knight didn't resonate as strongly with our voters as expected. The series delves into the tumultuous life of Marc Spector, whose multiple personalities add layers of mystery and chaos to this dark antihero tale. Blending elements of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and the surrealism of Marvel's Legion, Moon Knight offers a unique viewing experience.
The introduction of Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy) as a new hero was a highlight, alongside strong performances from F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the villainous Dr. Arthur Harrow. Despite its compelling cast, Moon Knight couldn't secure a higher spot on our list or earn a second season.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Despite its potential to soar, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier encountered challenges in taking flight. Starring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprising their roles from the Marvel films, the series benefited from their dynamic chemistry. However, it struggled with murky moral themes, an over-reliance on the Blip timeline, and a focus on espionage rather than the high-flying action fans anticipated.
As the first TV show fully developed by Marvel Studios, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier was originally slated to be the inaugural Disney+ series. However, the COVID-19 pandemic reshuffled the release schedule, leading to WandaVision's debut. The impact of the global health crisis on the series' quality is uncertain, but production delays from March to August 2020 were significant. Despite these challenges, the series laid crucial groundwork for the MCU's future, notably influencing this year's Thunderbolts film.
