Back in October a rumor surfaced claiming that Joe and Anthony Russo were in talks to direct Avengers 3 and Avengers 4, now titled Avengers: Infinity War - Part 1 and Part 2.  There’s still no confirmation on whether or not they got the gig(s), but the possibility does make one wonder, what will happen to Avengers and Avengers: Age of Ultron helmer Joss Whedon?

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Image via Marvel Studios

Here’s what Whedon told Empire (via CBM) regarding his future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe:

"I couldn't imagine doing this again.  It’s enormously hard, and it be, by then, a good five years since I created anything that was completely my own.  So it's very doubtful that I would take on the two-part Infinity War movie that would eat up the next four years of my life.  I obviously still want to be a part of the Marvel Universe - I love these guys - but it ain't easy.  This year has been more like running three shows than any year of my life.  It is bonkers.”

It’s sad but true.  It’ll always be a good thing when Whedon is attached to direct a film, but clearly the guy’s got a knack for creating original content.  Perhaps it’s time for him to go back to that realm.

As for the Russo brothers rumor, it’s funny because they’re in a similar situation right now.  The duo officially signed on to direct Captain America: The Winter Solider in June 2012.  Tack on those two Infinity War films and that means the brothers might be working on Marvel movies for seven years straight.  Whether they wind up in it for the long haul or not, I’d like to bet Whedon will still be involved in a producorial role.

In addition to the quote, CBM also shared some scans from Empire’s Avengers: Age of Ultron coverage.  Check them out below:

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