Joss Whedon, the director of The Avengers, is to write and direct new action series S.H.I.E.L.D reports Screen Rant.
The news follows the announcement that Whedon will be the writer and director of The Avengers 2, working with Marvel Studios for the next three years where he will help oversee the near future of the Marvel Universe. "Joss Whedon has signed an exclusive deal with Marvel Studios for film and television through the end of June 2015. As part of that deal, Whedon will write and direct Marvel's The Avengers 2 as well as help develop a new live action series for Marvel Television at ABC. He will also contribute creatively to the next phase of Marvel's cinematic universe," said an official Disney statement.
The S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Hazard Intervention Espionage Logistics Directorate)series is based on Marvel's 'extra-government intelligence' and security organization. It used to stand for Supreme Headquarters, International Espionage, Law-Enforcement Division, but was changed in 1991. There is a large scope for Whedon within this new show, as it allows him to explore all aspects of the Marvel universe. The Incredible Hulk, currently being devised by director Guillermo del Toro, was set to be Abc's first superhero TV series, but production has stalled whilst del Toro waits for one of his writers to finish another project so they can resume work on the screenplay. It looks like superhero and comic book fans will be spoilt for choice over the next few years.