In celebration of Disney Channel's 40th anniversary, it's a great time to rank the best original shows on the cable network. With a staggering 86 original series produced for the Disney Channel, 35 for Disney Junior, and 22 for Disney XD, it's no wonder this beloved network has captured the hearts of young and old viewers alike. From heartwarming spinoffs like Girl Meets World to more recent hits like Secrets of Sulphur Springs, Disney shows have consistently provided a delightful and memorable experience for the whole family. What sets Disney originals apart is their ability to transport viewers to imaginative worlds filled with wonder, adventure, and valuable life lessons.
The expansive catalog of Disney shows also includes franchise works like DuckTales, Winnie the Pooh, and the extensive Marvel universe, showcasing the network's commitment to bringing beloved characters to life in exciting new ways. This journey through Disney Channel's rich history celebrates 40 years of laughter, friendship, and enchantment. Whether through nostalgic childhood memories or the latest series, Disney's programming has likely touched everyone at some point in their lives. From the good to the best, these 20 original TV shows have left an indelible mark on viewers' hearts and remind them why the Disney Channel remains a cherished source of joy and entertainment for generations past, present, and future.
20 Even Stevens
Even Stevens is a delightful suburban family sitcom reminiscent of classics like Full House. The Stevens family consists of a lawyer father and a mother who aspires to be a political candidate. Donnie (Nick Spano), the oldest, is portrayed as both athletic and somewhat lacking in intellect. The middle child and only daughter, Ren (Christy Carlson Romano), embodies the overachiever archetype. And finally, Louis (Shia LeBeouf) is the youngest and the endearing troublemaker. Even Stevens ran for only three seasons, from 2000 to 2003. While it doesn't tread much new ground within the genre, the show's appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of a suburban family's everyday life.
19 Shake It Up
Shake It Up is a live-action show spanning three seasons from 2010 to 2013. The story revolves around best friends Rocky Blue (Zendaya) and CeCe Jones (Bella Thorne), who unexpectedly find themselves as backup dancers on the television show Shake It Up, Chicago. As with many other Disney offerings, Shake It Up follows the tried-and-true formula of navigating the challenges of showbiz while simultaneously tackling the trials and tribulations of high school. This was one of the first Disney Channel TV show roles for Zendaya. Shake It Up's lighthearted escapades and catchy dance numbers endeared it to audiences, making it a memorable part of Disney Channel's lineup during that era.
18 Andi Mack
Andi Mack introduces viewers to the relatable protagonist Andi (Peyton Elizabeth Lee). This ordinary teenager harbors the life-altering secret that her "sister," Bex (Lilan Bowden), is, in fact, her mother. Running for three seasons from 2017 to 2019, this live-action series stands out for its genuine portrayal of characters facing unconventional family dynamics. The show exemplifies a shift in Disney Channel's approach, delving into more mature themes rather than catering exclusively to younger audiences. Andi Mack represents a progressive step for Disney in showcasing narratives that resonate with a broader range of viewers, promoting inclusivity, and addressing the challenges of adolescence with sensitivity and authenticity.
17 Lizzie McGuire
Lizzie McGuire revolves around Lizzie (Hilary Duff) as she navigates the ups and downs of growing up with the support of her loving family, including her parents, brother, and friends. What sets Lizzie McGuire apart is how it incorporates an animated version of Lizzie, who shares her inner thoughts with the audience. This device adds a layer of whimsy and allows viewers to connect more intimately with Lizzie's perspective. Lizzie McGuire aired for only two seasons, from 2001 to 2004, yet Hilary Duff's portrayal of the titular character solidified her status as a rising star, and the show's popularity stands as a testament to its timeless appeal.
16 Kickin' It
In Kickin' It, a struggling dojo aims to restore its reputation with the help of an unlikely group of high school students. Jack (Leo Howard), Milton (Dylan Riley Snyder), Jerry (Mateo Arias), Kim (Olivia Holt), Eddie (Alex Christian Jones), and Rudy (Jason Earles) support each other through the trials and tribulations of high school, friendship, and the world of martial arts. This live-action sports series captivated audiences for four seasons from 2011 to 2015. With its endearing characters and engaging storylines, the series showcased Disney Channel's knack for creating compelling, heartwarming, sports-themed content. Kickin' It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of teamwork, and resilience.
15 Bunk'd
Bunk'd is a spinoff from the popular Disney Channel show Jessie, which centers around a teenager who works as a nanny for a wealthy family in New York City. Taking a different direction, Bunk'd immerses its teenage characters in improbable yet entertaining situations as they navigate Camp Kikiwaka summer camp. Bunk'd has been on air since 2015, with six seasons so far. Alongside the adventures and comedic moments, Bunk'd emphasizes more serious themes such as friendship and teamwork. The friends are Lou Hockhauser (Miranda May), Destiny Baker (Mallory James Mahoney), Noah Lambert (Israel Johnson), Parker Preston (Trevor Tordjman), Winnie Webster (Shiloh Verrico), Jake (Luke Busey), and Bill Pickett (Alfred Lewis).
14 Hannah Montana
Hannah Montana follows Miley Stewart (Miley Cyrus) as she balances fame as the titular pop artist Hannah Montana and real life as a high school student. Cyrus's real-life father, Billy Ray Cyrus, also stars as her on-screen father, Robby Ray Stewart. This live-action series enchants audiences over four seasons, which initially aired from 2006 to 2011. Its enduring popularity lies in its relatability, capturing the dreams, struggles, and aspirations of young viewers who can empathize with Miley's dual life. Miley Cyrus's star power and the show's compelling narrative propelled Hannah Montana into a cultural phenomenon and an unforgettable part of the Disney Channel legacy.
13 Kim Possible
Kim Possible is an animated series that follows the adventures of a remarkable teenage girl (voiced by Christy Carlson Romano) as she aids people around the globe in escaping dangerous situations. Kim is an extraordinary character, excelling in gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, and intelligence. Kim's best friend, Ron (voiced by Will Friedle), provides clumsy assistance in adventures. The animated series spanned four seasons, captivating audiences from 2002 to 2007. Moreover, Kim Possible spawned a live-action movie and an animated feature film. With its captivating visuals, engaging characters, and thrilling adventures, Kim Possible remains a beloved part of the animated television landscape and one of the best Disney Channel original series.
12 Wizards Of Waverly Place
Wizards of Waverly Place aired for four seasons from 2007 to 2012 and revolves around the Russo family, who are all wizards. The three teenage siblings Alex (Selena Gomez), Justin (David Henrie), and Max (Jake T Austin) are training to compete for the family wizard powers. Wizards of Waverly Place showcases Selena Gomez in one of her first prominent roles during her Disney Channel days. The live-action show's success led to two TV movies. Falling within the subgenre of young adult fantasy, Wizards of Waverly Place incorporates the element of characters keeping their magical abilities a secret while navigating the challenges of high school, resulting in hilarious and entertaining situations.
11 Sofia The First
Sofia the First is a delightful animated series aimed at younger viewers, but it still holds appeal for older kids. The story follows the journey of Sofia (voiced by Ariel Winter) as her commoner mother, Queen Miranda (voiced by Sara Ramirez), marries King Roland II (voiced by Travis Willingham). Equipped with a magical amulet that enables her to communicate with animals, Sofia embarks on various adventures. Throughout the show's four seasons from 2013 to 2018, Sofia learned valuable lessons about kindness, friendship, and more, often with the guidance of classic Disney princesses and the fairy godmothers from Sleeping Beauty. The charming animation and heartwarming storytelling make Sofia the First enjoyable.
10 Raven's Home
Raven's Home serves as a spinoff to the beloved series That's So Raven, where the title character, Raven Baxter (Raven-Symoné), has grown up and now finds herself as a divorced single mother to preteen twins, Booker (Isaac Ryan Brown) and Nia (Navia Robinson). Raven and her kids share a home with her best friend, Chelsea (Anneliese van der Pol), and Chelsea's son Levi (Jason Maybaum). Raven is disconcerted to discover that her son Booker possesses the same psychic abilities she does, which leads to some hilarious situations. With six seasons and counting since 2017, this live-action Disney Channel show continues to captivate audiences with its endearing characters and entertaining storylines.
9 The Suite Life Of Zack & Cody
The Suite Life of Zack & Cody revolves around twins Zack Martin (Dylan Sprouse) and Cody Martin (Cole Sprouse), who are being raised by their lounge singer mother in a suite at the Tipton Hotel in Boston. The boys often find themselves in trouble, though the experiences also serve as valuable life lessons. This live-action series ran for three seasons from 2005 to 2008 and remains a beloved Disney Channel classic, cherished for its humor, relatability, and memorable characters. Notably, Dylan and Cole Sprouse portray the twins in their next big role after jointly playing young Ben on Friends. Cole Sprouse famously went on to play Jughead on Riverdale.
8 Jake And The Never Land Pirates
Jake and the Never Land Pirates is a delightful cartoon set in Never Land sometime after the events of Peter Pan. While primarily aimed at younger viewers, the show manages to maintain entertainment value for adults, making it fun for the whole family. The series follows a band of young pirates as they embark on adventurous journeys throughout Never Land. Running from 2011 to 2016, this animated Disney show spanned four seasons, with each episode lasting half an hour. Jake (voiced by Colin Ford) leads the group, joined by his friends Marina the mermaid (voiced by Ariel Winter) and the talking parrot Skully (voiced by David Arquette).
7 Phineas And Ferb
Phineas and Ferb is a wonderfully zany cartoon that appeals to both adults and kids alike. Stepbrothers Phineas Flynn (voiced by Vincent Martella) and Ferb Fletcher (voiced by Thomas Sangster) use their boundless creativity to fill their summer vacation with extraordinary adventures — simultaneous to the missions of their platypus pet, Perry, who's a secret agent. The boys' wildly imaginative creations often involve unrealistically large structures that lead to hilarious mishaps and valuable life lessons, all while outsmarting their older sister, Candace (voiced by Ashley Tisdale). Originally running for four seasons from 2008 to 2015, the show's enduring popularity has led to Phineas and Ferb's upcoming revival.
6 Girl Meets World
Girl Meets World is the beloved live-action spinoff to the widely popular ABC show Boy Meets World. The hit Disney Channel series revolves around Cory (Ben Savage) and Topanga (Danielle Fishel) Matthews's daughter, Riley (Rowan Blanchard), and her adventures alongside her best friend, Maya Hart (Sabrina Carpenter). The show follows Riley's journey as she strives to find her place at school while navigating the challenges of bullying, peer pressure, and personal growth. In each episode, she learns valuable life lessons that add depth to the narrative. Girl Meets World spanned just three seasons from 2014 to 2017, capturing the hearts of audiences with its relatable characters and engaging storylines.
5 Gravity Falls
Gravity Falls is a captivating animated series that aired from 2012 to 2014, with accompanying shorts running from 2012 to 2020. The show centers around 12-year-old twins Dipper Pines (voiced by Jason Ritter) and Mabel Pines (voiced by Kristen Schaal) as they embark on a quest to uncover the secrets of the enigmatic town of Gravity Falls. Each summer, they are sent to stay with their great uncle, Stan Pines (voiced by Alex Hirsch), who may hold answers to the town's mysterious occurrences. The show is known for its unique closing credits, which feature cryptograms for the Gravity Falls audience to decipher, adding an interactive element to the viewing experience.
4 The Owl House
The Owl House quickly became a fan-favorite show. This led to an outpouring of vocal disappointment when The Owl House was canceled after season 3. The animated show ran from 2020 to 2023 and follows teenager Luz (voiced by Sarah-Nicole Robles) as she finds herself in a magical realm that dislikes humans. Luz forms a bond with a witch named Eda (voiced by Wendie Malick) and her sidekick King (voiced by Alex Hirsch), ultimately becoming the witch's apprentice. Together, they navigate their respective troubles. Regarded as one of the best Disney Channel shows, animated or live-action, The Owl House stands out for its immersive storytelling and captivating characters.
3 The Secret Of Sulphur Springs
The Secret of Sulphur Springs is a live-action series that has spanned three seasons so far since 2021. The story revolves around Griffin Campbell (Preston Oliver), who is devastated when his family relocates to the southern town of Sulphur Springs after his father assumes management of the Tremont Hotel there. However, Griffin finds solace in his new friendship with Harper (Kyliegh Curran). Together, they become deeply intrigued by the mysterious historical disappearance of Savannah Dillon (Elle Graham), who vanished without a trace from the Tremont Hotel. The show weaves elements of time travel and other supernatural and sci-fi themes into its narrative, providing viewers with an engrossing and engaging experience.
2 Elena Of Avalor
Elena of Avalor is a spinoff of Sofia the First where Sofia plays a crucial role in freeing Elena (voiced by Aimee Carrero). One of the very best Disney Channel originals, it revolves around Elena and her family, including her younger sister Isabel (voiced by Jenna Ortega), as they navigate the aftermath of Elena's 41-year imprisonment within an amulet. Surprisingly complex for a kid's show, Elena of Avalor delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the significance of family. The show comprises three seasons, initially aired from 2016 to 2020, plus a prequel movie. Elena was Disney's first South American princess, marking a significant milestone in the Disney Princess franchise.
1 That's So Raven
That's So Raven stars the talented Raven-Symoné as the psychic teenager Raven Baxter. She lives with her parents, Tanya Baxter (T'Keyah Crystal Keymáh) and Victor Baxter (Rondell Sheridan), and younger brother Cory (Kyle Massey). The series primarily focuses on Raven's high school adventures. Her psychic abilities, which were inherited from her maternal grandmother, often lead her, her friends Chelsea Daniels (Anneliese van der Pol) and Eddie Thomas (Orlando Brown), and occasionally her family into various entertaining situations based on her visions. This live-action show delighted audiences over four seasons from 2003 to 2007, serving as a prime example of fun, campy, and lighthearted Disney Channel family programming at its best.