The unsurprising announcement came during Disney’s earnings call on Tuesday (7), ending speculation following Whedon’s non-committal stance during the recent Comic-Con.

Marvel Studios later issued a statement confirming the news. “Joss Whedon has signed an exclusive deal with Marvel Studios for film and television through the end of June 2015,” it read.

“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.”

In the earning call with analysts The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger reported Q3 film studios revenues came in at $1.62bn, marginally higher than the same period a year ago.

He cited The Avengers and Brave as key drivers for the studio.

The Avengers grossed $1.46bn worldwide.