Top 10 All Time Disney Channel Shows
#10: “Lizzie McGuire” (2001-04)
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As one of the original Disney Channel sitcoms, “Lizzie McGuire” kept itself interesting without reliance on gimmicks. The series follows a teen girl, played by Hilary Duff, as she tries to make it through junior high, while coping with the normal issues of adolescence, such as spreading rumors and proving responsibility. By using an animated persona representing Lizzie’s inner thoughts, the show helped viewers understand the problems from a teenager’s point of view. As the saying goes, “art imitates life” and “Lizzie McGuire” does that with no strings attached.
#9: “Wizards of Waverly Place” (2007-12)
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Selena Gomez may be known for her pop songs today, but we’ll always remember her starring role in this sitcom about three siblings competing for the role of the Family Wizard of their generation. This leads to many misadventures in their daily lives, manipulating events in their favor at the expense of possibly revealing their secret. In its four-season life, the “Wizards of Waverly Place” franchise won three Emmy awards and set the record for most watched series finale in Disney Channel history, clocking in at almost 10 million viewers. It may look like a run-of-the-mill sitcom on the outside, but there is truly something to behold when starting the first few episodes.
#8: “Phineas and Ferb” (2007-15)
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You can’t get more simple than a show about two imaginative boys finding ways to spend their summer vacation… oh, and their pet platypus is also a secret agent with a mad scientist nemesis. “Phineas and Ferb” is one of Disney Channel’s more recent successes, achieving acclaim for its writing, animation, and music. It even scored a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Animated Program. With characters like the nefarious, yet idiotic, Dr. Doofenshmirtz and tons of pop culture humor, there was more than enough material to entertain both kids and adults. This show defined the phrase, “fun for the whole family.”
#7: “Hannah Montana” (2006-11)
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Before Miley Cyrus became the questionable role model we know today, she was the face of a phenomenon among girls known as “Hannah Montana.” The show revolved around a young girl trying to live a normal life while living the life of a pop star in secrecy. While the show was deemed as “a guilty pleasure” among critics, it boasted high ratings across its lifespan. Towards the end of the show’s run, Miley’s increasingly provocative image outside of Disney caused many to see her as a negative influence for their kids. As far as we’re concerned, though, that doesn’t take away from the show’s quality and overall impact.
#6: “DuckTales” (1987-1990)
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You can’t ignore the massive legacy this nostalgic gem left behind. The plot revolved around duck brothers Huey, Dewey, and Louie as they search for treasure across the globe with their Uncle Scrooge. The ensemble cast also included dimwitted pilot Launchpad McQuack, brainiac inventor Gyro Gearloose, and, of course, Donald Duck. “DuckTales” has spawned a film, comic book series, and a handful of exceptional video games. Heck, a 2017 TV reboot is even in the works! Episodes were clever and creative, and we still can’t get that theme song out of our heads.
#5: “Kim Possible” (2002-07)
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Cartoon Network might’ve had the Powerpuff Girls, but Disney Channel had the badass cheerleader spy, Kim Possible. With a creative rogues gallery that could give Batman and James Bond a run for their money, it’s hard to single out the best episodes. It was also not one to shy away from typical issues that come with being a teenager and later even addressed feminism and modern technology. Despite many expecting very little from the show, it quickly became a tremendous success for Disney Channel, becoming one of the longest-running series on the network before “Phineas and Ferb” stole the crown in 2013 (and the Epcot spot in 2012). Hopefully, someday soon, we’ll be asked, “What’s the sitch,” once again.
#4: “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody” (2005-08)
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Who doesn’t remember the Sprouse twins, Dylan and Cole? Before endorsing Danimals, they played twin brothers who live in a hotel where their mother works as the lounge singer. With a colorful cast of characters like ditzy rich girl London Tipton and the snooty Mr. Moseby, each episode was a joyful bundle of pure entertainment and wacky antics. On top of being the most successful Disney Channel premiere in 2005, the show was nominated for three Emmys, once for Outstanding Choreography and twice for Outstanding Children’s Program. While we may have gotten a TV movie, a spin-off series, and two crossover specials, we’ll always have a special place for the original series.
#3: “Gravity Falls” (2012-16)
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Of all the shows on this list, none could prove to be bolder than “Gravity Falls.” While Phineas and Ferb spent their summer vacation inventing things, twin siblings Dipper and Mabel investigated strange activity in their uncle’s weird town. In between the frequent hilarious moments, the show maintained endearing messages about life. The show has taken home several awards, being commended for its voice acting, production, music, and story. Deep, thought provoking, and imaginative, “Gravity Falls” proved to be a modern classic for all generations to enjoy. Hey, we even said this show is one of the best animated shows of the decade!
#2: “Even Stevens” (2000-03)
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Believe it or not, Shia LaBeouf wasn’t always such a controversial figure. Take a look back in his heyday when he was the co-star of the comedy series, “Even Stevens.” The show focused on two siblings who were constantly at odds with each other. The plot might’ve been simple, but that’s part of what made it so memorable. During its run, the show won numerous awards with a large handful of nominations in between. While the show finished after three seasons and a movie, it’s still remembered as one of the Disney Channel’s crowning achievements. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few Honorable Mentions: “The Proud Family” (2001-05) “Recess” (1997-2001) “Good Luck Charlie” (2010-14)
#1: “That’s So Raven” (2003-07)
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When Raven-Symoné said, “Hello, world,” the world screamed and embraced her. “That’s So Raven” told the tales of a teenage fashion designer with psychic powers that allow her to see into the future. During its run, the sitcom was the highest rated show on Disney Channel and was also the very first Disney Channel series to hit the 100-episode milestone. The show officially wrapped up in 2007, but inspired a short-lived spin-off series, “Cory in the House.” Of course if you’re eager for more Raven, we’re happy to report that a sequel series is reportedly in development. Do you agree with our list? Which Disney Channel show did you love the most? For more entertaining Top 10’s published every day, be sure to subscribe to MsMojo!