10 Must-Watch Disney+ Shows for Marvel Fans Beyond the Blockbusters

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has transformed the superhero genre, delivering cinematic juggernauts like Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Black Panther that dominate box offices and cultural conversations. On Disney+, the MCU’s streaming home, blockbuster-inspired series like WandaVision and Loki have garnered massive attention, often stealing the spotlight with their multiverse-spanning narratives and ties to major films. However, nestled among these high-profile hits are lesser-known Marvel series—hidden gems that offer unique storytelling, compelling characters, and fresh perspectives without the fanfare of their cinematic counterparts. These shows, while critically acclaimed or beloved by dedicated fans, often fly under the radar due to limited marketing, niche premises, or being overshadowed by bigger releases.

In this 5,900-word article, we’ll spotlight 10 must-watch Disney+ Marvel shows that deserve more love from fans, focusing on underrated series like Moon Knight and Hawkeye. From street-level heroics to psychological dramas and quirky comedies, these shows showcase the MCU’s versatility and depth, proving that Marvel’s smaller-scale stories can be just as captivating as its blockbusters. Whether you’re a diehard Marvel fan or a casual viewer seeking something new, this list will guide you to Disney+’s best-kept Marvel secrets. Let’s dive into the overlooked treasures of the MCU’s streaming catalog.

1. Moon Knight (2022)

Genre: Psychological Thriller, ActionCreator: Jeremy SlaterStarring: Oscar Isaac, Ethan Hawke, May CalamawyEpisodes: 6Rotten Tomatoes: 86%Metascore: 69

Moon Knight is a bold departure from the MCU’s typical formula, delivering a psychological thriller that dives into the fractured mind of Marc Spector (Oscar Isaac), a mercenary with dissociative identity disorder (DID). Sharing his body with the mild-mannered Steven Grant and other alters, Marc becomes the avatar of the Egyptian moon god Khonshu, battling a cult leader, Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke), in a high-stakes conflict rooted in ancient mythology. Set largely outside the MCU’s interconnected web, the series explores themes of identity, trauma, and morality against a backdrop of gritty action and surreal visuals.

What makes Moon Knight a hidden gem is its standalone nature and Isaac’s tour-de-force performance, seamlessly shifting between Marc’s intensity and Steven’s bewildered charm. Critics praised its dark tone, inventive storytelling, and cultural authenticity in depicting Egyptian settings, though some noted its narrative complexity could feel convoluted. Despite a strong debut, Moon Knight was overshadowed by multiverse-heavy series like Loki, and its lack of direct ties to MCU films limited its mainstream buzz. Fans on X have ranked it among their top MCU shows, citing its unique vibe and emotional depth.

On Disney+, Moon Knight shines as a character-driven exploration of a lesser-known Marvel hero, perfect for viewers who crave intense drama and psychological intrigue. Its blend of street-level action and metaphysical stakes makes it a standout gem.

2. Hawkeye (2021)

Genre: Action, Comedy, DramaCreator: Jonathan IglaStarring: Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Vera Farmiga, Alaqua CoxEpisodes: 6Rotten Tomatoes: 92%Metascore: 66

Hawkeye brings the MCU’s most grounded Avenger, Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner), into the spotlight, pairing him with the spirited Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld) in a holiday-season adventure through New York City. Set after Avengers: Endgame, the series follows Clint as he mentors Kate, a skilled archer and fan of his heroics, while confronting his past as the vigilante Ronin. The duo battles the Tracksuit Mafia, uncovers a conspiracy, and faces off against a formidable crime lord, all while Clint aims to get home for Christmas.

This series is a hidden gem for its breezy, low-stakes charm and the electric chemistry between Renner and Steinfeld, which captures the mentor-student dynamic inspired by Matt Fraction and David Aja’s acclaimed Hawkeye comics. Critics lauded its street-level action, heartfelt moments, and introduction of characters like Echo (Alaqua Cox), though its release alongside Spider-Man: No Way Home dampened its visibility. The show’s focus on Clint’s hearing loss and Kate’s youthful energy adds inclusivity and relatability, earning praise for its comic accuracy.

Streaming on Disney+, Hawkeye is a delightful mix of action, humor, and holiday warmth, making it an ideal pick for fans of character-driven stories and underdog heroes.

3. Ms. Marvel (2022)

Genre: Coming-of-Age, SuperheroCreator: Bisha K. AliStarring: Iman Vellani, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Rish ShahEpisodes: 6Rotten Tomatoes: 98%Metascore: 78

Ms. Marvel introduces Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani), a Pakistani-American teenager from Jersey City who idolizes Captain Marvel and dreams of being a superhero. When she gains cosmic powers tied to her family’s history, Kamala navigates her newfound abilities, high school life, and cultural identity while facing threats from the Clandestines and the Department of Damage Control. The series blends coming-of-age drama with vibrant superhero action, celebrating Kamala’s Muslim heritage and immigrant experience.

Despite its near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and critical acclaim for Vellani’s star-making performance, Ms. Marvel didn’t capture the same hype as WandaVision or Loki, possibly due to its younger target audience and lesser-known protagonist. The show’s colorful visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and exploration of identity resonated with fans, who ranked it highly on X for its refreshing take on the MCU. Its finale sets up Kamala’s role in The Marvels, but the series stands alone as a joyful origin story.

Available on Disney+, Ms. Marvel is a hidden gem that offers a fresh, culturally rich perspective, perfect for viewers who love character-focused narratives and teen superhero tales.

4. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022)

Genre: Comedy, SuperheroCreator: Jessica GaoStarring: Tatiana Maslany, Mark Ruffalo, Tim Roth, Ginger GonzagaEpisodes: 9Rotten Tomatoes: 80%Metascore: 67

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law is the MCU’s first true comedy series, following Jennifer Walters (Tatiana Maslany), a lawyer who gains Hulk-like powers after a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo). Juggling her legal career and superhero life, Jen defends superhuman clients, battles villains like Titania (Jameela Jamil), and breaks the fourth wall with witty commentary. The show embraces a sitcom-style format, blending legal drama, romance, and meta-humor.

Critics praised Maslany’s charismatic performance and the show’s lighthearted tone, though some criticized its CGI and episodic structure. She-Hulk struggled to match the buzz of multiverse-centric series, and its self-aware comedy polarized fans, with some X posts ranking it lower than Moon Knight or Hawkeye. However, its bold embrace of comedy and focus on a female superhero’s everyday struggles make it a unique entry in the MCU, earning a dedicated following.

On Disney+, She-Hulk is a hidden gem for those who enjoy irreverent humor and character-driven stories, offering a refreshing break from the MCU’s cosmic stakes.

5. Echo (2024)

Genre: Action, DramaCreator: Marion DayreStarring: Alaqua Cox, Chaske Spencer, Vincent D’Onofrio, Tantoo CardinalEpisodes: 5Rotten Tomatoes: 70%Metascore: 62

Echo is a gritty, street-level spinoff from Hawkeye, centering on Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox), a deaf Choctaw woman with a prosthetic leg who returns to her Oklahoma hometown after betraying her mentor, Wilson Fisk/Kingpin (Vincent D’Onofrio). As Maya reconnects with her family and Native American heritage, she gains mystical abilities tied to her ancestors, facing off against Fisk’s criminal empire in a tale of redemption and identity.

The series’ compact five-episode run and focus on Indigenous culture earned praise for its authenticity and Cox’s powerful performance, but its disjointed pacing and post-production edits drew criticism. Released as the MCU’s first binge-drop series, Echo flew under the radar, overshadowed by Agatha All Along and Daredevil: Born Again. Its grounded narrative and intense action, including a cameo from Charlie Cox’s Daredevil, make it a compelling watch for fans of Hawkeye’s street-level vibe.

Streaming on Disney+, Echo is a hidden gem that offers a raw, culturally resonant story, ideal for viewers who appreciate character depth and underrepresented perspectives.

6. What If...? (2021–Present)

Genre: Animated Anthology, Sci-FiCreator: A.C. BradleyStarring: Jeffrey Wright (narrator), various MCU actorsEpisodes: 18 (2 seasons)Rotten Tomatoes: 89% (Season 1), 86% (Season 2)Metascore: 69 (Season 1)

What If...? is an animated anthology series that explores alternate MCU timelines, guided by the Watcher (Jeffrey Wright). Each episode reimagines key events, such as Peggy Carter becoming Captain Carter, T’Challa as Star-Lord, or a zombie-infested Avengers universe. Featuring voice performances from MCU stars like Chadwick Boseman and Chris Hemsworth, the series blends humor, action, and emotional stakes across diverse genres.

Despite strong reviews for its creative premises and stunning animation, What If...? often takes a backseat to live-action series due to its non-canonical nature and anthology format. Fans on X have praised its bold storytelling, though some rank it below Moon Knight for its lack of narrative continuity. The show’s standalone episodes make it accessible, while its multiversal scope ties loosely to films like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Available on Disney+, What If...? is a hidden gem for fans who love experimental storytelling and exploring the MCU’s infinite possibilities.

7. Marvel’s Daredevil (2015–2018, now on Disney+)

Genre: Action, Crime DramaCreator: Drew GoddardStarring: Charlie Cox, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Vincent D’OnofrioEpisodes: 39 (3 seasons)Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Season 1), 81% (Season 2), 97% (Season 3)Metascore: 75 (Season 1)

Originally a Netflix series, Marvel’s Daredevil joined Disney+ in 2022, bringing Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), a blind lawyer and vigilante, into the MCU canon. Set in Hell’s Kitchen, the show follows Matt’s battle against crime, including the ruthless Kingpin (Vincent D’Onofrio), while balancing his legal practice and personal life. Known for its gritty tone, stellar fight choreography (notably the “hallway fight” in Season 1), and complex characters, Daredevil is a cornerstone of Marvel’s street-level storytelling.

Critics hailed the series for Cox’s nuanced performance and its mature narrative, but its Netflix origins and darker tone kept it from mainstream MCU hype until its Disney+ integration. The show’s influence is evident in Hawkeye and Echo, and its revival in Daredevil: Born Again (2025) underscores its enduring appeal. Fans on X rank it among Marvel’s best for its intensity and comic accuracy.

On Disney+, Daredevil is a hidden gem for fans of grounded, character-driven drama, offering a stark contrast to the MCU’s cosmic adventures.

8. Luke Cage (2016–2018, now on Disney+)

Genre: Action, Crime DramaCreator: Cheo Hodari CokerStarring: Mike Colter, Mahershala Ali, Simone Missick, Alfre WoodardEpisodes: 26 (2 seasons)Rotten Tomatoes: 87% (Season 1), 85% (Season 2)Metascore: 79 (Season 1)

Another Netflix transplant, Luke Cage stars Mike Colter as the bulletproof hero of Harlem, Luke Cage, who battles crime lords like Cottonmouth (Mahershala Ali) and Mariah Dillard (Alfre Woodard) while protecting his community. Blending superhero action with social commentary on race and gentrification, the series is steeped in Harlem’s cultural identity, featuring a soulful soundtrack and strong performances.

Luke Cage earned praise for its grounded storytelling and Ali’s chilling villainy, but its slower pacing and cancellation after two seasons limited its reach. Now on Disney+, it’s often overlooked compared to Daredevil or WandaVision, yet its focus on community and resilience resonates with fans, as seen in X discussions. The show’s ties to the Defenders Saga and cameos in Jessica Jones add depth to its MCU context.

Streaming on Disney+, Luke Cage is a hidden gem for viewers who appreciate socially conscious narratives and street-level heroics.

9. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

Genre: Comedy, Sci-FiDirector: James GunnStarring: Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Pom Klementieff, Kevin BaconRuntime: 42 minutesRotten Tomatoes: 92%Metascore: 68

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is a delightful, sub-hour “Marvel Studios Special Presentation” that sees Drax (Dave Bautista) and Mantis (Pom Klementieff) kidnap Kevin Bacon to cheer up Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) for Christmas. Directed by James Gunn, this standalone special blends absurd humor, heartfelt moments, and a killer soundtrack, serving as a bridge to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

Critics loved its joyful tone and the chemistry between Bautista and Klementieff, but its short length and one-off nature made it less discussed than full series. Fans on X celebrate its quirky charm, often ranking it alongside Hawkeye for holiday-themed fun. Its low stakes and self-contained story make it an easy, under-the-radar watch.

Available on Disney+, this special is a hidden gem for fans of the Guardians’ irreverent humor and those seeking a quick, festive MCU fix.

10. Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger (2018–2019, now on Disney+)

Genre: Drama, SuperheroCreator: Joe PokaskiStarring: Olivia Holt, Aubrey Joseph, Gloria ReubenEpisodes: 20 (2 seasons)Rotten Tomatoes: 89% (Season 1), 86% (Season 2)Metascore: 68 (Season 1)

Originally aired on Freeform, Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger joined Disney+ as an MCU-adjacent series, following teenagers Tandy Bowen (Olivia Holt) and Tyrone Johnson (Aubrey Joseph), who gain light and shadow-based powers after a tragic accident tied to the Roxxon Corporation. As they navigate their abilities, personal traumas, and a corrupt New Orleans underworld, Tandy and Tyrone form a deep bond, blending teen drama with superhero action.

The series earned praise for its emotional depth, diverse leads, and modernized origin story, but its Freeform roots and cancellation after two seasons kept it from MCU prominence. Its grounded, character-focused narrative and exploration of social issues like addiction and systemic injustice make it a unique gem, appreciated by fans on X for its heart.

On Disney+, Cloak & Dagger is a hidden gem for viewers who enjoy intimate, socially relevant superhero stories outside the MCU’s mainline chaos.

Why These Shows Are Hidden Gems

These 10 Disney+ Marvel shows—Moon Knight, Hawkeye, Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk, Echo, What If...?, Daredevil, Luke Cage, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, and Cloak & Dagger—share a common trait: they offer compelling, high-quality storytelling that often goes unnoticed amid the MCU’s blockbuster-driven hype. Several factors contribute to their underrated status. Series like Moon Knight and Echo embrace niche premises or standalone narratives, lacking the multiversal stakes that drive Loki or WandaVision. Others, such as Daredevil and Luke Cage, were initially released on Netflix, delaying their integration into Disney+’s MCU spotlight. Shows like Ms. Marvel and Cloak & Dagger target younger audiences or explore cultural identities, which may limit their mainstream appeal despite critical acclaim.

Yet, these hidden gems shine for their diversity, creativity, and focus on character over spectacle. Hawkeye and Daredevil deliver gritty, street-level action, while Moon Knight and She-Hulk experiment with psychological drama and comedy. Ms. Marvel and Echo bring underrepresented voices to the forefront, and What If...? pushes creative boundaries with its anthology format. The Guardians Holiday Special and Cloak & Dagger offer compact, emotionally resonant stories that don’t require deep MCU knowledge. Together, they prove that Marvel’s smaller-scale projects can rival its blockbusters in quality and impact.

Conclusion

Disney+ is a goldmine for Marvel fans, offering far more than the headline-grabbing blockbusters and multiverse epics that dominate the MCU. The 10 shows highlighted here—Moon Knight, Hawkeye, Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk, Echo, What If...?, Daredevil, Luke Cage, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, and Cloak & Dagger—represent the platform’s most underrated treasures, each delivering unique narratives, memorable characters, and critical acclaim. From the psychological depths of Moon Knight to the holiday cheer of Hawkeye, these series showcase the MCU’s ability to tell diverse, compelling stories beyond the shadow of its cinematic giants.

While these shows may not have the cultural footprint of WandaVision or Loki, their quality and innovation make them essential viewing for Marvel fans seeking fresh perspectives. Whether you’re drawn to street-level heroics, cultural richness, or experimental formats, these hidden gems offer something for everyone. So, fire up Disney+, venture past the blockbusters, and discover the MCU’s unsung heroes. You might just find your new favorite Marvel story waiting to be explored.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes a Marvel series a “hidden gem” on Disney+?A hidden gem is a critically acclaimed or fan-favored series that didn’t receive widespread attention due to factors like limited marketing, niche premises, or being overshadowed by bigger MCU releases.

2. Why didn’t Moon Knight get as much attention as Loki or WandaVision?Moon Knight’s standalone narrative and lack of direct ties to MCU films, combined with its complex psychological themes, made it less accessible to casual viewers compared to multiverse-focused series.

3. Is Hawkeye suitable for viewers who haven’t seen all MCU movies?Yes, Hawkeye is accessible with minimal MCU knowledge, focusing on Clint Barton’s personal story and introducing Kate Bishop in a self-contained, holiday-themed adventure.

4. How does Ms. Marvel stand out from other MCU series?Ms. Marvel shines for its coming-of-age narrative, vibrant visuals, and authentic portrayal of Pakistani-American culture, offering a fresh perspective through Kamala Khan’s journey.

5. Why was She-Hulk polarizing among fans?She-Hulk’s comedic tone, fourth-wall-breaking humor, and focus on episodic stories divided fans, with some embracing its lighthearted vibe and others expecting a more traditional MCU narrative.

6. Is Echo worth watching if I enjoyed Hawkeye?Absolutely. Echo expands on Hawkeye’s street-level action and introduces Maya Lopez’s compelling story, with strong ties to Kingpin and a focus on Indigenous culture.

7. Does What If...? connect to the main MCU timeline?What If...? explores alternate timelines, making it largely non-canonical, but some episodes tie loosely to films like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness through multiversal concepts.

8. Why are Daredevil and Luke Cage considered hidden gems despite their popularity?Originally Netflix series, they were less integrated into the MCU until joining Disney+, and their gritty, mature tones contrast with the MCU’s broader appeal, keeping them underappreciated by casual fans.

9. Is The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special essential for MCU fans?While not critical to the MCU’s main narrative, the special offers fun character moments and sets up Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, making it a delightful watch for fans of the team.

10. Are all these shows available globally on Disney+?Availability may vary by region due to licensing. Check your local Disney+ library to confirm access to these titles, especially former Netflix series like Daredevil and Luke Cage.

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