Joss Whedon signs on for "Avengers" sequel

(CBS/AP) Joss Whedon has been hired on again as boss of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America and their superhero pals for a sequel to "The Avengers."

Walt Disney Co. Chief Executive Officer Robert Iger said the filmmaker is returning to write and direct the sequel adapted from the Marvel Comics tales.

Pictures: "The Avengers" premieres

Iger also said Whedon is helping to develop a Marvel-based TV series for ABC. Marvel is a Disney subsidiary.

Earlier this year, Whedon told MTV News that he had a lot of freedom with the first movie. "Marvel gave me so much trust in the movie that I said, 'Well, if I was going to do this I'd like to do this.' And that's the movie I made," he said. "They only ever moved it forwards and collaborated and supported me. And I gotta tell you, that's unusual from a studio."

No details were provided on a start of production or release date for the sequel to Whedon's "The Avengers," the year's biggest hit with nearly $1.5 billion at the worldwide box office. But the film will have to get in line behind a busy schedule of solo sequels featuring "Avengers" co-stars.

Robert Downey Jr. is filming "Iron Man 3" for release next May, while "Thor" star Chris Hemsworth will have his own sequel out in November 2013. Chris Evans' "Captain America" sequel will follow in April 2014.