Marvel's The Avengers star Cobie Smulders has been confirmed to reprise her Agent Maria Hill role in the upcoming ABC series Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.. The actress makes her debut in the pilot episode, which we reported this week will debut on Tuesday, September 24 at 8 PM ET. Take a look at the first photo of the actress on the set, then read on to see what series creator Joss Whedon had to say.

Since the series revolves solely around the S.H.I.E.L.D. organization, and not around the superheroes in Marvel's The Avengers, many speculated that Maria Hill would be a part of the show. Here's what Joss Whedon about the decision to bring her on board for the pilot.

"I wanted very much to have Cobie in the pilot because as much as anyone else, she IS SHIELD. She's cool and commanding, and has the dry humor that plays so well with Clark (Gregg)'s. Also, if she's in it I get to hang out with Cobie."

The actress is expected to pop up periodically on the series, which will prove to be tricky due to her commitment to the final season of CBS' How I Met Your Mother. It is possible she could be on board full time, if ABC orders a second season.

Stay tuned for more details regarding Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. from the show's Comic-Con panel.