From the iconic Incredible Hulk TV series to the groundbreaking Netflix shows that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have been a significant inspiration for television adaptations. While previous efforts to link these live-action series to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have often faltered—think of shows like Runaways and Cloak and Dagger—2021 marked a turning point. Marvel Studios launched a new era by filling their flagship streaming platform, Disney+, with series intricately connected to their renowned multi-billion-dollar film franchise.
As the charming Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man becomes the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the Marvel Studios television that preceded it. Much like the Avengers sharing shawarma amidst the ruins of New York, our team of Marvel enthusiasts at IGN gathered to discuss and rank the 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows released so far. We eagerly await the addition of Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man to this list once the series concludes.
Every Marvel TV Show in the Disney+ Era Ranked
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Secret Invasion
It's almost surreal to discuss how a series based on the monumental Secret Invasion event in Marvel Comics history turned out to be the lowest-rated Marvel TV show. Despite its potential, the series failed to capture the essence of the comics, with director Ali Selim openly admitting to not relying on the source material. While the MCU has shown that deviating from the comics can lead to fresh takes, Secret Invasion fell short. Attempting to emulate the espionage vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the show focused on Nick Fury's (Samuel L. Jackson) efforts to thwart a Skrull invasion. However, slow pacing, an AI-generated opening, the abrupt killing off of a beloved character, and the introduction of a bizarre, likely one-off superpowered character left it at the bottom of our MCU TV rankings.
Echo
Echo marks a significant leap in quality from Secret Invasion, securing the 11th spot. Alaqua Cox reprises her role from Hawkeye as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo, in a story that delves into her return to the reservation and her struggles with her powers, past, and her connection to Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio). Though the series was condensed into fewer episodes than anticipated, leaving some viewers wanting more, Echo stands out for its dynamic action scenes, including a thrilling opening fight with Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Additionally, it breaks new ground with a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew, making it a unique and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU, despite its lower ranking.
Moon Knight
You might be surprised to see Moon Knight, starring Oscar Isaac, ranked so low. The series explores the complex psyche of Marc Spector, blending dark antihero themes with elements reminiscent of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's Legion. Despite introducing compelling characters like Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy) and featuring strong performances from F. Murray Abraham and Ethan Hawke, Moon Knight didn't resonate enough with our voters to rank higher. The series, while impactful, couldn't secure a second season or climb further up our list.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier had the potential to soar but struggled to take flight. Starring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, the series benefited from the duo's chemistry but was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, heavy reliance on the Blip timeline, and a focus on espionage over action. As the second Marvel TV show to hit Disney+, it was initially set to be the first but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have affected its production and final quality. Despite these challenges, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier remains crucial to understanding the current MCU, particularly with its connections to the upcoming Thunderbolts film.
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