ABC Picks Up Joss Whedon's MARVEL'S AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D.

Joss Whedon is back on television - and he's brought a slew of Marvel characters with him.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the AVENGERS helmer and BUFFY creator's pilot, MARVEL'S THE AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D., has officially been ordered to series by ABC.

The drama series has been high on the list of shows likely to be picked up for a full order, with ABC execs giving it the fast track way back in the fall.

The series is "based on Marvel Comics' secret intelligence organization that has appeared in countless titles, including Iron Man, Captain America and The Ultimates, since being introduced in the 1960s. The military law-enforcement agency's moniker stands for Strategic Hazard Intervention Espionage Logistic Directorate, which also has evolved over time in the comics."

The cast includes Ming-Na (ER), Clark Gregg (THE AVENGERS), Brett Dalton (KILLING LINCOLN), Elizabeth Henstridge, Chloe Bennett, and Ian De Caestecker.

The project was written by Whedon, his bother Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen and is based on a collection of Marvel comic books. There have been no details as to which Marvel characters will be featured in the TV version. On the big screen, the organization included overseer Nick Fury, Captain America, the Hulk, Black Widow, Tony Stark and Thor.

The network is set to air a preview of the series tomorrow, prior to ONCE UPON A TIME's season finale at 8:00 p.m.

For the original announcement, head on over to The Hollywood Reporter.