Last month, we reported that ABC is looking to tap into the superhero realm, with a potential TV series set in the world of Marvel's The Avengers. Today, we have word that the network has ordered a pilot for S.H.I.E.L.D., a series that will supposedly center on the organization (Strategic Hazard Intervention Espionage Logistics Directorate) that brought these superheroes together.

Marvel's The Avengers director Joss Whedon has signed on to write the pilot script with his brother Jed Whedon, and Maurissa Tancharoen (Dollhouse). Joss Whedon is also expected to direct the pilot episode, if his schedule permits.

Our initial report indicated that this live-action series may or may not feature the actual superheroes from Marvel's The Avengers, although it will be set in the same world. Setting this up as a S.H.I.E.L.D. series will likely introduce more of the inner-workings of this clandestine organization, although no plot details have been confirmed yet. It is possible for the various actors and heroes currently seen in the movie to make guest appearances, and for future comic book characters to be introduced.

It is not known at this time if Samuel L. Jackson, who plays S.H.I.E.L.D. leader Nick Fury, will be involved with the series, or if he will make an appearance in the pilot.

Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon, and Maurissa Tancharoen will executive produce the pilot alongside Marvel TV president Jeph Loeb and Jeffrey Bell. It is said that production will begin immediately, so stay tuned for any casting updates in the near future.