It was announced right before Christmas that Iron Man and Iron Man 2 director Jon Favreau would not be back to direct Iron Man 3.

Shane Black, who previously worked with Iron Man star Robert Downey Jr. on Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang and has a good working relationship with the actor, is now being eyed to fill the void left by Jon Favreau.

Shane Black is not a lock for the directorial position on Iron Man 3, as Marvel Studios is continuing to look at writers and directors for the project.

At this time, Marvel Studios is keeping the plotline of Iron Man 3 a secret. Shane Black has taken meetings with Marvel executives, and his ideas for the continuation of this popular franchise has impressed the studio.

At this time, Iron Man 3 does not have a set start date.