From the iconic *Incredible Hulk* TV series to the gripping *Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.*, and the gritty Netflix street-level series that introduced characters like Daredevil and Luke Cage to streaming audiences, Marvel Comics have long been a powerhouse of inspiration for small screen adaptations. Despite the challenges of connecting these live-action TV shows to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)—remember *Runaways* and *Cloak and Dagger*?—Marvel Studios embarked on a groundbreaking journey in 2021. This pivotal moment marked the launch of a new era with Disney+ series that are intricately woven into the fabric of the MCU, the multi-billion dollar film franchise synonymous with Marvel Studios.
With the delightful *Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man* swinging onto our screens as the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, it's the perfect time to reflect on the Marvel Studios television journey thus far. Much like the Avengers sharing a post-battle shawarma in the ruins of New York, the Marvel enthusiasts at IGN have gathered to rank the first 12 Disney+ Marvel TV shows. We'll update this list with *Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man* once the series concludes, so stay tuned.
It's disheartening to report that Secret Invasion, despite its comic book legacy as one of Marvel's most pivotal events, fell short of expectations, unanimously voted as the weakest series by our panel. Director Ali Selim openly admitted to not drawing inspiration from the source material, believing it unnecessary for crafting a compelling narrative. While the MCU has thrived on creative deviations when driven by a clear vision, Secret Invasion lacked the depth and execution to bring its story to life effectively.
Attempting to emulate the espionage atmosphere of *Captain America: The Winter Soldier*, *Secret Invasion* centered on Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) thwarting a Skrull invasion. Yet, the series was bogged down by slow pacing, an AI-generated opening sequence, the abrupt and controversial demise of a cherished female character, and the introduction of a peculiar new superpowered entity unlikely to reappear, cementing its place at the bottom of the MCU's television offerings on Disney+.
The leap in quality from Secret Invasion to Echo is significant, positioning the latter in our 11th spot, though far from the bottom of the barrel. Alaqua Cox reprised her role as the deaf Cheyenne superhero Echo from Hawkeye, delivering an intimate, action-packed narrative of her return to the reservation. Here, she grapples with her powers, her past, and her complex relationship with Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio), the Daredevil villain who raised her.
Despite the truncated episode count that left some fans wanting more, *Echo* features standout action sequences, including an exhilarating opening battle against Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). Moreover, it stands out as a groundbreaking series with its predominantly indigenous cast and crew, offering a unique, emotionally resonant addition to the MCU. While it might not have the widespread impact of some higher-ranked shows, *Echo* is a compelling watch that enriches the Marvel universe.
It might come as a surprise to see this Oscar Isaac-led series ranked so low, but Moon Knight didn't quite capture the imagination of our voters. The series delves into the multifaceted psyche of Marc Spector, blending elements of mystery and chaos as the antihero battles to maintain his sanity amidst thrilling action. This surrealist take on the character draws inspiration from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Indiana Jones, and Marvel's Legion.
True to form, the series introduces a new hero, Scarlet Scarab (May Calamawy), who emerges as a fan-favorite by the series' end. With a robust cast including F. Murray Abraham as the voice of Khonshu and Ethan Hawke as the villainous Dr. Arthur Harrow, *Moon Knight* boasts strong performances. However, it couldn't ascend to the higher echelons of our rankings or secure a second season.
Despite its promising premise, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier struggled to take flight. Featuring the return of Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan as the titular characters, the series benefited from their undeniable chemistry. However, it was weighed down by complex moral dilemmas, a heavy focus on the Blip's aftermath, and an emphasis on espionage over aerial heroics.
As Marvel Studios' first TV venture on Disney+, *The Falcon and the Winter Soldier* was initially set to be the platform's debut Marvel series. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, reshuffled the release schedule, with *WandaVision* ultimately taking the premiere slot. The impact of the global health crisis on the series' production, which was halted from March to August 2020, remains a point of speculation. Nonetheless, several narrative threads from this show have become crucial to understanding the current MCU landscape, notably influencing this year's *Thunderbolts* film.