25 Best Marvel TV Shows Ranked

Marvel’s television legacy is a thrilling ride through decades of superhero storytelling, from animated classics to gritty live-action dramas. Whether it’s Spider-Man swinging through New York or Wanda Maximoff bending reality, these shows bring the heart and action of Marvel comics to the small screen in ways that keep us glued to our seats.
I’ve ranked the top 25 Marvel TV shows, counting down from solid to unforgettable, focusing on their storytelling, character depth, and ability to captivate. Each entry dives into what makes the series shine, exploring its strengths, quirks, and why it resonates with viewers. Let’s start with the good and build up to the absolute best.
25. Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends (1981-1983)
‘Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends’ teams Peter Parker with Iceman and Firestar for lighthearted animated adventures. Voiced by Dan Gilvezan, Spider-Man faces classic villains like Green Goblin with a kid-friendly vibe. The show’s simple stories and dated visuals suit its era, but its charm lies in its team-up energy.
It’s a nostalgic blast for viewers who grew up with ‘80s cartoons. The series’ upbeat tone and early take on Marvel team-ups make it a cozy, retro gem.
24. The Incredible Hulk (1996-1997)
Lou Ferrigno voices the Hulk in this ‘90s animated series, with Bruce Banner navigating his monstrous alter ego. The show dives into Hulk’s battles with villains like Leader, balancing action with Banner’s emotional struggle. Its animation and storytelling feel basic by today’s standards, but it captures the character’s core.
The series shines when it explores Bruce’s inner conflict, appealing to fans of the green giant. ‘The Incredible Hulk’ is a solid, nostalgic entry in Marvel’s animated catalog.
23. Silver Surfer (1998)
‘Silver Surfer’ follows Norrin Radd, voiced by Paul Essiembre, as he roams the cosmos seeking redemption. The show’s stunning animation and philosophical tone tackle big themes like freedom and sacrifice, setting it apart from kid-focused cartoons. Its short run and dense stories limit its reach, however.
The cosmic scope and emotional depth make it a hidden gem for Marvel fans. ‘Silver Surfer’ is a bold, underrated animated series that deserves more love.
22. Spider-Man Unlimited (1999-2001)
This animated series puts Spider-Man, voiced by Rino Romano, on an alien planet, blending sci-fi with classic web-slinging action. The unique setting and bold visuals offer a fresh take, though the shift from traditional Spider-Man tales divides fans. It’s a short-lived but ambitious experiment.
The show’s mix of cosmic adventure and Peter Parker’s wit keeps it engaging. ‘Spider-Man Unlimited’ is a quirky, offbeat chapter for fans open to a wilder Spidey story.
21. The Avengers United They Stand (1999-2000)
‘The Avengers United They Stand’ assembles a lesser-known roster, led by Ant-Man and Wasp, in a ‘90s animated series. The voice cast, including Linda Ballantyne as Wasp, delivers solid heroics, but the absence of major heroes like Captain America limits its draw. Its action-packed episodes still entertain.
The show’s focus on teamwork and underdog heroes gives it a unique vibe. It’s a fun, if overlooked, animated take on Marvel’s premier team.
20. Agent Carter (2015-2016)
Hayley Atwell stars as Peggy Carter, a 1940s SSR agent proving her worth in a male-dominated world. The retro aesthetic and sharp dialogue capture the post-war vibe, with Atwell’s fierce, charismatic performance stealing the show. James D’Arcy’s Jarvis adds charm, though weaker villain arcs and a short two-season run hold it back.
Peggy’s journey from desk work to kicking butt is endlessly fun, blending spy thrills with Marvel flair. ‘Agent Carter’ is a stylish, plucky gem that deserves more time in the spotlight.
19. Marvel’s Luke Cage (2016-2018)
‘Marvel’s Luke Cage’ brings Harlem’s bulletproof hero to life, with Mike Colter delivering a commanding performance as Luke, a man with unbreakable skin protecting his community. The first season’s soulful vibe, powered by Mahershala Ali’s magnetic Cottonmouth and a killer soundtrack, blends gritty action with sharp social commentary, though later episodes shift focus unevenly.
Season two refines the pacing, diving deeper into Luke’s struggle to balance power and responsibility, with strong support from Simone Missick’s Misty Knight. ‘Marvel’s Luke Cage’ is a bold, stylish series that stands out for its cultural depth and grounded heroism, making it a must-watch for fans of Marvel’s street-level stories.
18. Agatha All Along (2024)
‘Agatha All Along’ is a wickedly fun ‘WandaVision’ spin-off, with Kathryn Hahn stealing the show as Agatha Harkness leading a coven of witches through a dark, magical journey. The spooky vibe, sharp humor, and strong ensemble—featuring Joe Locke and Sasheer Zamata—create a thrilling mix, though uneven pacing slightly dims its spell.
Hahn’s magnetic performance and the show’s blend of horror, comedy, and MCU lore make it a standout. ‘Agatha All Along’ is a delightful, quirky ride that proves Marvel can nail smaller, stranger stories.
17. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013-2020)
Clark Gregg’s Phil Coulson leads a team of agents in this long-running MCU tie-in, evolving from spy thriller to wild sci-fi with time travel and aliens. Chloe Bennet’s Quake and Iain De Caestecker’s Fitz carry the emotional core, though uneven seasons and a bloated cast can slow things down. Its early ‘Avengers’ connection adds weight.
The show’s bold arcs and loyal fanbase make it a Marvel staple, balancing action with heart. ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ is a sprawling, ambitious ride that grows stronger with time.
16. The Defenders (2017)
‘The Defenders’ unites Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist to save New York in a Netflix crossover. Charlie Cox and Krysten Ritter shine, with thrilling team-up action and sharp banter, especially between Luke and Jessica. Sigourney Weaver’s villain feels underused, and the short season rushes some payoffs.
The heroes’ chemistry and street-level stakes make it a blast, even if it’s not flawless. ‘The Defenders’ is a satisfying cap to Marvel’s Netflix saga, delivering gritty team-up fun.
15. What If…? (2021-2024)
This animated anthology reimagines MCU events with alternate timelines, narrated by Jeffrey Wright as The Watcher. From T’Challa as Star-Lord to zombie outbreaks, ‘What If…?’ bursts with creativity and star-studded voice work. Some episodes outshine others, and the animation style divides viewers.
Its bold multiverse tales and ties to the MCU make it a unique chapter. ‘What If…?’ is a fun, imaginative ride for fans who love fresh spins on familiar heroes.
14. Falcon and The Winter Soldier (2021)
Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan star as Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes, navigating a post-Cap world with global threats and personal struggles. Daniel Brühl’s Zemo adds sly charm, while Wyatt Russell’s John Walker brings gritty complexity. The action shines, though some subplots feel rushed.
Sam’s journey to embrace the Captain America mantle is heartfelt, tackling race and legacy with weight. ‘Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ is a strong MCU entry with heart and spectacle.
13. Moon Knight (2022)
Oscar Isaac delivers a tour-de-force as Marc Spector, a mercenary with dissociative identity disorder tied to an Egyptian god. ‘Moon Knight’ blends psychological thriller with mythic action, boasting striking visuals and a standalone MCU vibe. Ethan Hawke’s chilling Arthur Harrow and May Calamawy’s Layla add depth, though pacing dips mid-season.
The show’s bold, weird energy and Isaac’s layered performance make it a standout. ‘Moon Knight’ is a thrilling, unique dive into Marvel’s darker, stranger corners.
12. Hawkeye (2021)
Jeremy Renner’s Clint Barton mentors Hailee Steinfeld’s Kate Bishop in this holiday-themed MCU adventure. The street-level action and mentor-student dynamic feel fresh, with Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova stealing scenes with wit and heart. The festive New York setting adds charm, though some subplots drag.
The archery battles and emotional stakes make ‘Hawkeye’ a crowd-pleaser. It’s a grounded, heartfelt tale that balances humor and action with holiday cheer.
11. Ms. Marvel (2022)
Iman Vellani shines as Kamala Khan, a Pakistani-American teen who gains cosmic powers and lives her superhero dreams. ‘Ms. Marvel’ bursts with youthful energy, blending family drama, cultural identity, and MCU ties. Its vibrant visuals and heartfelt story soar, even if the villain arc feels rushed.
Kamala’s journey from fan to hero is pure joy, setting up ‘The Marvels’. ‘Ms. Marvel’ is a warm, authentic gem that celebrates diversity and fandom with heart.
10. Daredevil: Born Again (2025)
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ brings back Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer and vigilante, in a gritty MCU continuation that recaptures the spirit of the original ‘Daredevil’. The action-packed fights and Vincent D’Onofrio’s intense Kingpin keep the stakes high, but the show doesn’t quite match the raw brilliance of its Netflix predecessor due to a slightly less focused narrative.
Cox’s heartfelt performance and the return of familiar faces like Jon Bernthal’s Punisher make it a thrilling watch. ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ is a pretty good revival that satisfies fans, even if it falls just short of the original’s heights.
9. Marvel’s Jessica Jones (2015-2019)
‘Marvel’s Jessica Jones’ delivers a solid, gritty take on the superhero genre, with Krysten Ritter shining as Jessica, a private investigator with super strength and a haunted past. The first season’s dark exploration of trauma, driven by David Tennant’s chilling Kilgrave, hooks you with its noir vibe, though later seasons lose some focus with less compelling villains.
Ritter’s raw, relatable performance keeps the show engaging, blending sharp wit with emotional depth. ‘Jessica Jones’ is a pretty good addition to Marvel’s lineup, offering a compelling, grounded story for fans of character-driven drama.
8. The Punisher (2017-2019)
Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle is a force in this brutal ‘Daredevil’ spin-off, diving into the vigilante’s quest for vengeance. Season one’s military conspiracy hits hard, blending intense action with raw emotion, though season two leans on familiar tropes. Bernthal’s gripping performance, backed by Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Amber Rose Revah, anchors the show.
‘The Punisher’ excels when balancing grit with heart, making Frank a tragic, compelling antihero. It’s a standout for fans of dark, grounded Marvel stories.
7. WandaVision (2021)
Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany star as Wanda Maximoff and Vision in this bold MCU series, blending sitcom homages with superhero mystery. The creative episode structure, mimicking classic TV eras, keeps you hooked, while Kathryn Hahn’s Agatha Harkness adds delicious intrigue. It’s a heartfelt exploration of grief and power.
‘WandaVision’ redefines Marvel TV with its inventive storytelling and multiverse ties. Olsen’s raw performance and the show’s emotional depth make it a near-perfect gem.
6. Legion (2017-2019)
Dan Stevens stars as David Haller, a mutant with reality-warping powers, in this mind-bending FX series. ‘Legion’ is a visual feast, blending psychological drama with surreal storytelling. Its bold style and Aubrey Plaza’s electric performance as Lenny make it unforgettable, though its complex narrative can feel overwhelming.
The show’s exploration of mental illness and power sets it apart, with stunning direction from Noah Hawley. ‘Legion’ is a daring, artsy dive into the X-Men universe, rewarding patient viewers with its creativity.
5. Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1994-1998)
‘Spider-Man: The Animated Series’ is a dazzling ‘90s gem that brings Peter Parker’s web-slinging adventures to life with vibrant animation and heart-pounding storytelling. Voiced by Christopher Daniel Barnes, Spider-Man battles iconic villains like Venom and Green Goblin, with serialized arcs that were groundbreaking for their time, blending action with Peter’s struggles over love, money, and responsibility in a way that feels timeless.
This show is a nostalgic masterpiece, capturing the essence of Spider-Man’s comic roots with wit and heart. Its bold storytelling and memorable voice work make it a must-watch for any Marvel fan, cementing its place as one of the greatest animated superhero series ever.
4. Loki (2021-2023)
Tom Hiddleston’s Loki navigates time and multiverse chaos in this slick MCU series. Owen Wilson’s Mobius grounds Loki’s mischief, while the Time Variance Authority and Kang’s introduction raise the stakes. Season one’s sharp writing and visuals shine, though season two dips slightly in focus.
The mix of humor, heart, and cosmic intrigue makes ‘Loki’ a fan favorite. It’s a thrilling ride that reshapes the MCU with style and ambition.
3. Daredevil (2015-2018)
Charlie Cox’s Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer and vigilante, anchors this gritty Netflix masterpiece set in Hell’s Kitchen. The raw fight scenes, like the iconic hallway battles, set a new standard, while Vincent D’Onofrio’s chilling Kingpin elevates the drama. Season one and three are near-flawless, though season two slows a bit.
Cox’s nuanced performance and the show’s focus on morality and consequence make ‘Daredevil’ a benchmark for superhero TV. It’s a gripping, grounded triumph that tops the list of live-action Marvel shows.
2. X-Men ‘97 (2024)
‘X-Men ‘97’ is a stunning revival of the ‘90s classic, breathing new life into the mutant saga with breathtaking animation and gripping storytelling. The voice cast, including Cal Dodd as Wolverine and Lenore Zann as Rogue, delivers powerful performances, while the show dives deeper into themes of prejudice and heroism, elevating the original’s legacy with modern flair.
Every episode bursts with heart, action, and jaw-dropping surprises, making it a love letter to fans and a perfect entry for newcomers. ‘X-Men ‘97’ is an amazing shwo that redefines animated superhero storytelling.
1. X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)
‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ is an iconic ‘90s masterpiece that brought mutants like Wolverine, Storm, and Cyclops to life with unforgettable style and heart. Its catchy theme song and comic-accurate stories tackle prejudice and teamwork, with the voice cast—Cal Dodd as Wolverine, Catherine Disher as Jean Grey—nailing the team’s dynamic, making it a cultural touchstone that still resonates.
The show’s bold narratives and emotional depth set the stage for Marvel’s animated dominance. ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ is an amazing, nostalgic powerhouse that remains a cornerstone for superhero fans.