While Disney Plus is of course known for hosting some of the biggest franchises that can cater to most ages, like Marvel and Star Wars, it is also the home of some more adults-only fare - such as the Alien film series.

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Now, that franchise, which was originated by Ridley Scott with the chilling 1979 film, has birthed a long-form series, Alien: Earth, which has been receiving rave reviews.

As fans continue to wait for that show to release new episode, there is still plenty of original content to dive into on Disney Plus. For instance, Marvel fans can enjoy releases from this year including Eyes of Wakanda and Ironheart, while those looking for Star Wars shows can enjoy the acclaimed second season of Andor.

Meanwhile, there's plenty of non-franchise fare to enjoy too, from recent novel adaptation Washington Black, which stars Sterling K Brown, Sharon Duncan-Brewster and Tom Ellis, to all four seasons of acclaimed kitchen drama The Bear.

The streamer also hasn't been a stranger to acquired dramas, such as Normal People and Killing Eve, and in fact has recently done a first-of-its-kind agreement with ITVX, which means it now hosts ITV shows like Endeavour, Malpractice and Mr Bates vs The Post Office.

With so much choice, it's only natural to hit a roadblock in finding something to watch that'll perfectly scratch that itch. And that's where we come in!

Below is a selection of standout series currently available to stream on Disney Plus - courtesy of Radio Times.

Alien: Earth

Sydney Chandler as Wendy in Alien: Earth
Sydney Chandler as Wendy in Alien: Earth Patrick Brown/FX

Fargo and Legion creator Noah Hawley brings us this new eight-part series, which marks a number of firsts for the Alien franchise. Not only is it the first series in the horror franchise, but it also sees us visit this universe's version of Earth for the first time, and centres around the first ever hybrids – human children whose minds have been uploaded to synthetic bodies.

Leading the cast as one of these hybrids, Wendy, is Sydney Chandler, who gives a stellar performance as the character who is coming to terms with her new existence. Also in key roles are the likes of Timothy Olyphant, Alex Lawther and Babou Ceesay.

The series has a lot on its mind, with plenty of ruminations on humanity, AI and capitalism, but that doesn't mean it doesn't still also feature its fair share of action and gore. In fact, not only do the xenomorphs feature front and centre, but the show also introduces a collection of new creepy creatures as additions to the Alien mythos.

Eyes of Wakanda

A scene from Marvel's Eyes of Wakanda. An armoured warrior is seen striking out a fist, which glows with purple kinetic energy.
Marvel's Eyes of Wakanda Marvel Animation / Disney

This latest series from Marvel Animation has been executive produced by Ryan Coogler, and looks to expand the world of Wakanda that he introduced us to in both Black Panther and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

The four-part season follows a host of different characters, and tells different stories from throughout the nation's history. Its anthology structure with only minor connections means fans can dip in and out of episodes, and they don't need to have any prior knowledge of other MCU projects.

Instead, they can simply enjoy some fun historical tales, allow themselves to be seeped in the world of Wakanda, and to enjoy some stunning animation.

Washington Black

Eddie Karanja and Tom Ellis star in Washington Black, wearing formal period clothing and looking sternly at someone ahead of them
Eddie Karanja and Tom Ellis star in Washington Black. Hulu / Disney / Chris Reardon

Newly added to Disney Plus, the streamer brings Esi Edugyan's celebrated novel Washington Black to screen.

The story follows the epic journey of a former slave as he is taken under his wing by an eccentric inventor. In the series, viewers visit Washington Black in two points of his life, as a child (played by Eddie Karanja) and as a young man (played by Ernest Kingsley Jr).

Alongside the the two leads are TV staples Tom Ellis and Sterling K Brown, who co-star as Titch Wilde and Medwin Harris, two older men who serve as mentors to the titular character at pivotal stages of his life.

Shōgun

Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun wearing regal gold dress and on a white horse in the middle of a field.
Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun. Colin Bentley/FX

This epic historical drama was original billed as a limited series, but after it went on to receive critical acclaim and a substantial number of awards, it's perhaps no surprise that it is now returning for a second and third season.

Based on James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name, it follows John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), an English sailor who gets shipwrecked off the coat of Japan, and Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), a ruler facing off dangerous rivals. With breathtaking scope and compelling central performances, it's a drama unlike almost any other we've seen on TV.

Ironheart

Riri Williams in her Ironheart suit with the faceplate lifted up to reveal her expression, which is one of concern. Multicoloured city lights reflect off the armour.
Dominique Thorne plays Riri Williams in Marvel's Ironheart. Marvel / Disney

Ryan Coogler's recent work on Sinners has certainly catapulted the filmmaker onto more people's radars, but of course, Coogler has long been known as the brains behind Black Panther and its sequel, Wakanda Forever. Coogler takes on an executive producer role in this new series, which takes place after the events of the second film.

Focusing on young inventor Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), she is determined to make her mark on the world but soon becomes enraptured with the charming Parker Robbins aka 'the Hood' (Anthony Ramos).

Rivals

David Tennant, Nafessa Williams and Aidan Turner walking down a hallway and looking serious.
David Tennant, Nafessa Williams and Aidan Turner in Rivals. Disney+

Across eight episodes, we're taken on a sex-filled jaunt through the '80s as we're propelled into the world of independent television. Sure, most people who don't work within that industry won't know the ins and outs of what it takes to be a big broadcaster, but, like any good series, Rivals chucks us headfirst into the world of TV by way of more relatable themes such as loyalty, power and greed.

In a world obsessed with monetary value and male-dominated workplaces, Rivals creates this shiny fictional setting that isn't actually too far off the mark of reality. - Morgan Cormack

A Thousand Blows

Stephen Graham and Malachi Kirby stood opposite each other, fighting.
Stephen Graham and Malachi Kirby in A Thousand Blows. Disney/Robert Viglasky

Malachi Kirby, Erin Doherty and Stephen Graham lead this Victorian era boxing drama from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, which follows a newly immigrated man from Jamaica who makes his mark in London. It's a slow-burn of a series, but it builds to a thrilling climax, has style to spare and features some brilliantly complex characters.

Rematch

Christian Cooke plays Garry Kasparov in Rematch, looking anxious during a chess game
Leo Pinter / Disney Plus

This six-part drama revisits the landmark 1997 chess showdown between world champion Garry Kasparov and IBM’s supercomputer Deep Blue. Christian Cooke stars as Kasparov, capturing the intensity and psychological warfare of a man facing off against a machine designed to defeat him. With scenes set inside both the tech giant’s inner sanctum and Kasparov’s personal world, Rematch explores the human cost of technological ambition and the dawning age of artificial intelligence. A compelling watch with real-world resonance.

Andor

Diego Luna as Cassian Andor in Andor season 2, standing in a spaceship and staring intensely
Diego Luna as Cassian Andor in Andor season 2. Lucasfilm / Disney Plus

A standout in the Star Wars universe, Andor follows Cassian Andor in the early days of the rebellion. The series explores his transformation into the hardened operative later seen in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Not only does it delve into the origins of the resistance, but it also offers a compelling look at the inner workings and cruelty of the Empire.

The Stolen Girl

Holliday Grainger as Rebecca Walsh/Nina Thibault in The Stolen Girl, crouched on the floor
Holliday Grainger as Rebecca Walsh/Nina Thibault in The Stolen Girl. Matt Squire/Disney+

This five-part psychological thriller stars Denise Gough as Elisa Blix, a mother whose daughter vanishes after a sleepover. What begins as a simple playdate spirals into a chilling mystery when the host's home turns out to be a rental and all traces of them disappear. The series is a must-watch for fans of intense, emotional crime dramas.

Daredevil: Born Again

Daredevil/Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) in Daredevil: Born Again looking at a messy desk
Daredevil/Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) in Daredevil: Born Again. Disney Plus

Charlie Cox returns as Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer who moonlights as the vigilante Daredevil. In this action-packed Marvel series, Murdock confronts crime lord Wilson Fisk, who is attempting to take over New York City through political power. The series combines legal drama with superhero action and personal stakes.

Paradise

Sterling K Brown looking stern and wearing an all black outfit as he walks through a crowd of people.
Sterling K Brown in Paradise. Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise is a political thriller centred on a Secret Service agent who becomes a suspect in the sudden death of the US president. With a strong cast and a tense storyline, the show offers a gripping narrative full of twists and intrigue.

High Potential

Judy Reyes as Selena, Javicia Leslie as Daphne, Deniz Akdeniz as Lev 'Oz' Osman, Daniel Sunjata as Karadec, Kaitlin Olson as Morgan, Amirah J as Ava and Matthew Lamb as Elliot in High Potential in a police office
High Potential. Disney/Pamela Littky

Inspired by the French-Belgian series HPI, this drama follows Morgan, a cleaner with a genius IQ who becomes a consultant for the LAPD. Her unorthodox methods and sharp mind shake up the department, leading to both friction and breakthroughs in criminal investigations.

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

Skeleton Crew cast gathered around a camera
Skeleton Crew.

Set in the Star Wars universe, this series follows a group of children lost in space. The synopsis reads: reads: "When four kids make a mysterious discovery on their seemingly safe home planet, they get lost in a strange and dangerous galaxy."

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man swinging through New York City
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. Disney Plus

This animated series offers a new take on the beloved superhero, adding to Disney Plus’s growing collection of Marvel content suitable for younger audiences while still proving engaging for long-time fans.

Say Nothing

Lola Petticrew in Say Nothing, a jumper pulled up over her nose, and her finger in front of her mouth in a "shushing" motion
Lola Petticrew in Say Nothing. FX

Based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s best-selling book, this historical drama explores Northern Ireland during The Troubles. It begins with the 1972 disappearance of Jean McConville and spans four decades, examining the lives affected by the conflict.

Agatha All Along

Agatha Harkness casts a spell in a scene from Agatha All Along
Kathryn Hahn plays Agatha Harkness in Agatha All Along. Marvel/Disney

A spin-off from WandaVision, this series follows Agatha Harkness as she attempts to reclaim her powers. Teaming up with a cursed teenager and assembling a coven, Agatha navigates a magical gauntlet in a fantastical journey through the Witches’ Road.

Only Murders in the Building

Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and Martin Short in Only Murders in the Building season 4 sitting in a car and eating, looking surprised at someone outside.
Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and Martin Short in Only Murders in the Building season 4. Disney/Eric McCandless

This comedy-mystery series stars Martin Short, Steve Martin and Selena Gomez as three true-crime enthusiasts who find themselves at the centre of a real murder case in their apartment building. Witty and engaging, it’s a fan favourite for good reason.

Loki

Tom Hiddleston in Loki season 2 wearing a suit, looking sad
Tom Hiddleston as Loki. Disney Plus

The God of Mischief returns in this time-hopping Marvel series. Loki is recruited by an organisation to track down a dangerous variant disrupting the timeline, leading to a mix of action, humour and existential questions.

The Bear

Jeremy Allen White, wearing a chef's apron in The Bear season 3
The Bear. FX/Disney Plus

In this comedy-drama, a celebrated chef returns to Chicago to take over his family's struggling sandwich shop. The series explores grief, ambition, and the chaos of the culinary world with sharp writing and strong performances.

Shardlake

Sean Bean as Thomas Cromwell in Shardlake. He is wearing a red outfit with gems across his chest
Sean Bean as Thomas Cromwell in Shardlake. Disney Plus/YouTube

Set in Tudor England, this four-part thriller follows lawyer Matthew Shardlake as he investigates a murder in a remote monastery. Working under Thomas Cromwell, Shardlake must navigate hostility and secrecy to uncover the truth.

X-Men '97

Mr Sinister with glowing red fists in X-Men 97.
Mr Sinister in X-Men 97. Marvel/Disney+

Reviving the beloved 1990s animated series, X-Men '97 picks up after the loss of Professor Xavier. The remaining X-Men face new threats and internal divisions as they fight to protect a world that fears them.

Atlanta

Brian Tyree Henry as Al and Donald Glover as Earn in Atlanta.
Brian Tyree Henry as Al and Donald Glover as Earn in Atlanta. FX

There aren't quite words to describe the rollercoaster journey of Atlanta, the surrealist comedy-drama that initially premiered on FX back in 2016. Created and starring Donald Glover, the cast is positively star-studded with the ensemble including Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield and Zazie Beetz, as well as appearances from the likes of Liam Neeson, Alexander Skarsgård and songwriter Jai Paul.

Generally, the series focuses on Earn (Glover) and Al's (Henry) journey to hip-hop stardom, shining a light on the hurdles they face in the industry. Really though, the series is known for its short storytelling capabilities, catapulting viewers into various plots that examine race, identity and class and also boasting plenty of standalone episodes that will linger with you long after watching.

Karen Pirie

Lauren Lyle as Karen Pirire stood with her hands on her hips, looking pensively ahead.
Lauren Lyle as Karen Pirie. ITV

While originally a release on ITV, as part of the cross-streamer collaboration, Disney Plus is now home to crime drama Karen Pirie.

Adapted from Val McDermid's novels, the series follows the titular character who has been promoted to Police Scotland's Historic Cases Unit, and in season 1, she reopens the cold case of a murdered barmaid and soon unearths flaws in the original 1995 inquiry.

Mr Bates vs the Post Office

Monica Dolan as Jo Hamilton in Mr Bates vs the Post Office
Monica Dolan as Jo Hamilton in Mr Bates vs the Post Office. ITV Studios/ITV

This four-part drama originally aired on ITV last year, and since its release, it has continued to show just how dramas are often the perfect medium to affect change when it comes to real-world issues. Since its release, there has been all kinds of justice that has prevailed (as well as awards for the show).

The sympathy-inducing series lays out the raw human emotions at the heart of the submostpasters and mistresses' plight, exposing the scandal of many being wrongly accused of fraud and theft due to errors caused by a faulty IT system. With scene-stealing performances from the likes of Toby Jones, Monica Dolan and Will Mellor, you'll be hard pressed not to feel incensed after watching.

You can sign up to Disney Plus from £4.99 a month now.

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Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

Authors

Helen DalyDeputy Digital Editor

Helen Daly is the Deputy Digital Editor for Radio Times, overseeing new initiatives and commercial projects for the brand. She was previously Deputy TV Editor at a national publication. She has a BA in English Literature and an MA in Media & Journalism from Newcastle University.

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