Joss Whedon signs on to direct, write "Avengers 2"

LOS ANGELES (TheWrap.com) - Joss Whedon has signed to write and direct "The Avengers 2," Disney Chairman Bob Iger said Tuesday.

In addition, Whedon will create a "Marvel-based" series for ABC, Iger said during a conference call with analysts.

Whedon wrote and slid behind the camera on "The Avengers," which Iger called a "phenomenal success" during the call. The adaptation of the Marvel Comics series has grossed nearly $1.5 billion worldwide.

Whedon's script and direction were praised by critics and fans for their light and often humorous touch.

Thanks largely to "The Avengers," the income at Disney's studio unit jumped to $313 million from $49 million a year earlier, during its most recent fiscal quarter. Overall, net income across all of Disney's divisions jumped 24 percent to $1.8 billion for the period.

Since purchasing Marvel for $4 billion three years ago, Disney has leaned heavily on the comic book maker as one of the pillars of its business, believing that the films it makes with its library of heroes will drive not just box office, but also revenue from theme park rides and toys.

Its upcoming film slate is peppered with films featuring the various characters from "The Avengers." Due out in 2013 are "Iron Man 3" and "Thor: The Dark World." The next year will bring "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," and "Guardians of the Galaxy," a new super-group film.