Tvline has published a ranking of the 12 greatest animated Disney shows, highlighting classics and modern favorites from Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney+. Topping the list is Gravity Falls for its blend of humor, mystery, and serialization, while other entries like Kim Possible and Phineas and Ferb showcase Disney's animation legacy.
Overview of the Ranking
The article celebrates Disney's animated television history, from 1980s adventures to 21st-century stories. It emphasizes how Disney turned film characters into TV stars and created originals that mix humor, action, and deeper themes. The ranking draws from shows across Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney+, noting their impact on audiences and animation trends.
The Full List
Amphibia: Follows Anne Boonchuy, voiced by Brenda Song, transported to a frog world. Creator Matt Braly, formerly of Gravity Falls, builds lore around friendship and growth.
Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers (1989): Chip (Tress MacNeille) and Dale (Corey Burton) become detectives with Monterey Jack, Gadget, and Zipper. Inspired a 2022 film.
TaleSpin: Baloo (Ed Gilbert) as a pilot in a Jungle Book spin-off, featuring aerial action and geopolitical nods.
Darkwing Duck: Superhero parody with Darkwing (Jim Cummings), villains like Negaduck, and an iconic theme song.
Recess: Explores playground sociology and economics through fourth-graders' adventures.
The Proud Family: Penny Proud (Kyla Pratt) navigates teen life with family focus; rebooted as The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder on Disney+.
The Owl House: Luz Noceda (Sarah-Nicole Robles) learns magic in a demon world; praised for LGBTQ+ representation, cancelled after three seasons.
Gargoyles (1990s): Dark tale of stone guardians in New York fighting threats like David Xanatos (Jonathan Frakes).
DuckTales (2017 reboot): Huey (Danny Pudi), Dewey (Ben Schwartz), Louie (Bobby Moynihan), and Scrooge (David Tennant) balance adventure and nostalgia.
Phineas and Ferb: Stepbrothers build inventions while Perry thwarts Dr. Doofenshmirtz (Dan Povenmire); features catchy songs and a 2025 revival.
Kim Possible (2000s): Teen spy Kim (Christy Carlson Romano) balances school and missions with Ron Stoppable (Will Friedle).
Gravity Falls: Twins Dipper (Jason Ritter) and Mabel (Kristen Schaal) uncover supernatural secrets with Grunkle Stan (Alex Hirsch); 40 episodes full of hints and heart.
This ranking underscores Disney's evolution in animation, influencing shows like Amphibia and The Owl House.