From the iconic *Incredible Hulk* TV series to the gripping *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, and the gritty Netflix shows that brought characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have consistently inspired compelling small screen adaptations. While previous efforts to integrate these live-action shows with the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faltered—think *Runaways* and *Cloak and Dagger*—2021 marked a new era for Marvel Studios. This pivotal shift began when Disney+ launched a series of shows intricately woven into the MCU, leveraging the franchise's multi-billion dollar success.
With the introduction of the charming *Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man* as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's an ideal moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television series that paved the way. Much like the Avengers enjoying shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, IGN's Marvel experts gathered to rank all 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows, culminating in a collective ranking. Keep an eye out for where *Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man* will land after its run concludes.
Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked
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12. Secret Invasion
Disney+It's surprising to find ourselves discussing how Secret Invasion, despite being one of the most significant events in Marvel Comics history, ended up as the lowest-ranked series in the Marvel TV lineup. The show, directed by Ali Selim, seemed uninterested in drawing from its comic roots, with Selim openly admitting he hadn't read the comics and didn't see their relevance. While the MCU has shown that fresh takes can revitalize iconic stories, Secret Invasion fell short in capturing the essence of its source material.
The series aimed to channel the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, focusing on Nick Fury's (Samuel L. Jackson) efforts to thwart a Skrull invasion. However, slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the unfortunate and abrupt death of a beloved female character, and the introduction of a bizarre new superpowered character that may never be revisited, cemented Secret Invasion's place at the bottom of the MCU's Disney+ series rankings.
Echo
Disney+Echo marks a significant jump 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. The series follows Echo's journey back to her reservation, grappling with her powers, her past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the man who raised her.
Despite being condensed into fewer episodes, which left some fans wanting more, Echo boasts standout action sequences, including an electrifying opening fight against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). The series is groundbreaking for featuring a predominantly indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique, emotionally charged addition to the MCU, even if it didn't have the widespread impact of higher-ranked shows.
Moon Knight
Disney+You might be surprised to see Moon Knight, starring Oscar Isaac, ranked so low, but it didn't resonate enough with our voters to climb higher. The series delves into the complex psyche of Marc Spector, whose multiple personalities add layers of mystery and chaos to his antihero journey. This surreal narrative blends elements reminiscent of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and even Marvel's own Legion from the Fox era.
Moon Knight introduces the compelling Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who emerges as a standout character. With a strong supporting cast including F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the villainous Dr. Arthur Harrow, the series had potential but ultimately couldn't secure a higher spot or a second season.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Disney+The Falcon and the Winter Soldier promised to soar but struggled to take flight. Featuring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan reprising their roles from the MCU films, the series benefited from the duo's on-screen chemistry. However, it was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip's aftermath, and an emphasis on espionage over the expected high-flying action.
Originally intended as the first Marvel Studios TV show on Disney+, its release was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing WandaVision to take the inaugural slot. The impact of the global health crisis on production, which paused from March to August 2020, may have influenced the final product. Despite its challenges, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier remains crucial for understanding key narrative developments in the MCU, especially in relation to this year's Thunderbolts film.
