Back in August, we reported the exciting news that Marvel is teaming up with ABC for Marvel's S.H.I.E.L.D., a new TV series from Marvel's The Avengers director Joss Whedon. Today, we have word that production on the first episode may begin as early as January in Los Angeles.

Last month, we reported that Ming-Na will play S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Althea Rice, with Clark Gregg reprising his role as Agent Coulson from Marvel's The Avengers. There are still several characters yet to be cast, such as Skye, Agent Grant Ward, Agent Leo Fitz, and Agent Jemma Simmons.

Joss Whedon is writing the pilot script with his brother Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen. The show will center on the shadowy organization, although it will not feature any of the superheroes from Marvel's The Avengers.

If production actually does begin in January, it is possible the show could be picked up for the fall 2013-2014 TV season. Don't be surprised if the pilot episode is screened at San Diego Comic-Con next summer as well.