Disney+ Dominates the Marvel Universe with Ranked TV Shows

Marvel's small-screen adaptations have a rich history, from the classic "Incredible Hulk" to the Netflix series featuring Daredevil and Luke Cage. While previous attempts to integrate these shows into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) faltered (remember "Runaways"?), 2021 marked a turning point. Marvel Studios launched a series of interconnected Disney+ shows, deeply entwined with the blockbuster film franchise.

With the recent addition of "Spider-Man: Freshman Year," the 13th Disney+ Marvel series in just four years, we've ranked the previous 12. Our team of Marvel experts independently ranked each show, and this is the aggregated result. "Spider-Man: Freshman Year's" ranking will be added later.

Disney+ Marvel TV Shows Ranked

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12. Secret Invasion

Universally considered the weakest Marvel Disney+ series to date, "Secret Invasion" fell far short of expectations. Despite the source material's significance in Marvel Comics, the series lacked focus. Director Ali Selim's admission of not reading the comics highlights a disconnect. While MCU adaptations often successfully reinterpret source material, "Secret Invasion" failed to deliver, hampered by slow pacing, a jarring AI-generated opening, the unceremonious death of a key character, and an underwhelming new character.

Aiming for the espionage tone of "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," the show centered on Nick Fury combating a Skrull invasion. However, these elements couldn't overcome the series' flaws.

11. Echo

A significant improvement over "Secret Invasion," "Echo" still ranks lower. Alaqua Cox reprises her role from "Hawkeye," delivering an action-packed story about Echo's return to her reservation. The series balances her powers, past, and relationship with Kingpin.

A shortened episode count left some viewers wanting more. Despite this, the series boasts impressive action sequences, notably a fight with Matt Murdock. Its predominantly Indigenous cast and crew are also noteworthy. While not as impactful as higher-ranked shows, "Echo" offers a unique and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU.

10. Moon Knight

Starring Oscar Isaac, "Moon Knight" surprisingly ranks lower. The series explores Marc Spector's multiple personalities, blending mystery, mayhem, and surrealism. It incorporates elements of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," "Indiana Jones," and Fox's "Legion."

Like many Marvel shows, it introduces a new hero, Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who becomes a standout. With a strong cast including F. Murray Abraham and Ethan Hawke, "Moon Knight" falls short of securing a higher ranking or a second season.

9. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Despite the strong chemistry between Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" underperformed. Murky morals, reliance on the Blip storyline, and a focus on espionage over action contributed to its lower ranking.

Initially slated for early release, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted production and release scheduling. The show's narrative elements are crucial to understanding the current MCU, notably influencing the "Thunderbolts" film.