Agent Coulson will be back!
Clark Gregg, who played the dutiful S.H.I.E.L.D. agent in summer blockbuster "The Avengers," will appear in Joss Whedon's upcoming ABC TV pilot about the secret government agency.
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"We all love Clark Gregg, there's no doubt about that," Joss announced in a taped message played for fans at New York Comic-Con on Saturday. "From before we made 'The Avengers,' we discussed whether there was a way for him to be a part of the Marvel Universe, perhaps a part of a TV show even after his death."
Marvel chief Kevin Feige also confirmed the news to the excited crowd, saying, "There was never going to be a 'S.H.I.E.L.D.' show without Agent Phil Coulson!"
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"He's headlining the S.H.I.E.L.D. show and always was," Joss added.
Characters previously announced for the "S.H.I.E.L.D." pilot team (headed up by Nick Fury) include Skye, a woman in her 20s known for her wit, charm, intelligence and confidence. She's someone who usually has the upper hand in sticky situations.
Also being cast is Agent Grant Ward, a physical powerhouse who remains "cool under fire" except with his own personal relationships. He's also known to have a temper.
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Agent Althea Rice in the potential TV series has been described as a pilot and weapons specialist referred to as "The Calvary." Her past personal struggles have left her with some baggage and she's usually the silent one in the group.
Finally, the other members being cast currently are Agent Leo Fitz and Agent Jemma Simmon, a duo who met while training, who are said to have a sibling-like connection. She's skilled with scientific matters, while he is a weapons tech expert.
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It is not yet known if Samuel L. Jackson, who played Nick Fury on the big screen, or any of the other Avengers characters or the actors who portray them on the big screen, will appear in the pilot or series - with the exception of Clark as Agent Paulson.
Production on the pilot has already begun.
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