Marvel TV shows have come a long way, evolving from early network dramas to high budget, cinematic series that directly expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Whether you are a longtime fan of Marvel films and comics or someone who simply loves superhero streaming content, the world of Marvel television is now one of the richest parts of the franchise. Understanding how these shows are organized helps fans follow the MCU timeline, discover new characters, and explore stories that movies do not always have the time to tell.

Today, Marvel television is divided into two clear eras. The first era includes the titles produced by Marvel Television from 2013 to 2020. The second era features Marvel Studios productions that began in 2021 and continue as part of the official MCU timeline. This guide breaks down all the major shows, why they matter, and what fans can expect in the future.

Let’s Know Marvel Studios Series

What Defines This Era

Marvel Studios series are directly connected to the MCU films and produced with the same creative teams led by Kevin Feige. These series share continuity, affect the overarching story, and often introduce characters who later appear in major films. Every Marvel Studios title is available on Disney+, which makes the MCU timeline easier for fans to follow.

Best Marvel Series to Watch

WandaVision

This groundbreaking series mixes sitcom formats with superhero storytelling. It explores Wanda Maximoff’s grief, her transformation into the Scarlet Witch, and events that set up future MCU films.

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

This show continues the story of Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes. It explores global politics, legacy, and Sam’s journey toward becoming the new Captain America.

Loki

A fan favorite for its multiverse focus. Loki expands the cosmic side of the MCU, introduces the TVA, and sets up future multiverse storylines across the franchise.

What If…?

An animated series that reimagines major MCU events. It is canon to the multiverse and has influenced plots explored in recent films.

Hawkeye

A grounded holiday season story about Clint Barton while introducing Kate Bishop, an important addition to the next generation of MCU heroes.

Moon Knight

A darker psychological adventure following Marc Spector and the Egyptian gods. It stands out for its unique tone and character depth.

Ms. Marvel

This series introduces Kamala Khan. It is a youthful, vibrant story that captures modern fandom culture while connecting directly to larger Marvel events.

She Hulk Attorney at Law

A character driven legal comedy that expands the street level side of the MCU while developing Jennifer Walters as a major recurring hero.

Werewolf by Night and Holiday Specials

These specials explore the magical, supernatural, and cosmic corners of the MCU in compact formats.

Secret Invasion

A political thriller centered on Nick Fury and the Skrull infiltration storyline. It expands the espionage side of Marvel television.

Echo

A character study of Maya Lopez that connects the ground level world of Daredevil and Kingpin to the broader MCU.

Agatha All Along

A supernatural series focused on Agatha Harkness that deepens the magical side of the MCU.

X Men 97

This continuation of the iconic animated series has become one of Marvel’s most critically acclaimed modern projects, exploring mutant stories with updated animation and continuity adjustments that align with future MCU plans.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Best Marvel Television Series

How This Era Began

Before Marvel Studios took full control of TV storytelling, Marvel Television produced several shows that explored the MCU from the edges. These titles connected loosely to the films but did not fully integrate due to production differences and separate creative leadership. Despite this, the era produced some fan favorite titles.

Major Titles in This Category

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

A long running ABC series that explored the world of espionage within the MCU. It introduced original characters and major Inhuman storylines.

Agent Carter

A period series following Peggy Carter and the early days of S.H.I.E.L.D. Widely praised for its character development and historical narrative.

The Defenders Saga

The Netflix collection includes Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders, and The Punisher. Known for gritty storytelling and grounded action, these series became beloved by fans and are now available on Disney+.

Inhumans

A short lived ABC production centered on the Inhuman royal family.

Runaways

A Hulu series about teens discovering their parents are supervillains. It blends family drama with superhero themes.

Cloak and Dagger

A Freeform series that follows two powered teenagers connected by fate and trauma.

Helstrom

A Hulu series loosely inspired by supernatural Marvel comics, often considered the final project of Marvel Television.

These shows now appear under Disney+ categories such as The Defenders Saga or Marvel Legacy, helping fans identify how they fit into the larger Marvel brand.

Upcoming Marvel Studios Series

What Fans Can Expect Next

Marvel Studios continues to expand the MCU through a lineup of upcoming series that explore both animation and live action. These titles are expected to play major roles in future phases of the MCU.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider Man

An animated series revisiting the early days of Peter Parker within the MCU timeline.

Eyes of Wakanda

An animated anthology focusing on the protectors of Wakanda throughout history.

Marvel Zombies

A more mature animated series building on the multiverse storyline introduced in What If.

Daredevil Born Again

A highly anticipated return of Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk within the official MCU.

Ironheart

A series centered on Riri Williams, who first appeared in Black Panther Wakanda Forever.

Wonder Man

A series exploring the life of Simon Williams and Hollywood within the MCU.

Vision Quest

A follow up to WandaVision focusing on the evolution of Vision.

Image Credit: Britannica

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all Marvel TV shows canon to the MCU?

Only Marvel Studios series are fully canon. Marvel Television shows are semi connected but not fully integrated.

2. Do I need to watch every series?

No. Marvel creates shows that enhance the MCU but do not require full viewing for movies to make sense.

3. Where should new fans start?

Loki, WandaVision, Ms. Marvel, Daredevil and Hawkeye are great entry points based on your preferred style.

4. Which series are the most important for future MCU films?

Loki, WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Echo, Agatha All Along and Ironheart tie most closely to upcoming stories.

The Future of Marvel TV Shows

Marvel TV shows have become essential to understanding the MCU and exploring every corner of its universe. As the franchise grows, television remains the best platform for deep character development, experimental storytelling, and world building that prepares audiences for larger theatrical stories. The lineup of upcoming series shows Marvel’s commitment to animation, ground level heroes, cosmic arcs, and new generations of characters. For fans who want to stay ahead of the MCU, these shows offer some of the most exciting storytelling Marvel has created so far.