It’s been a while since Iron Man and Iron Man 2 director Jon Favreau announced that he would not be returning to direct Iron Man 3, leaving fans to wonder who would be chosen to try and continue the massive success of the franchise.

Recently there had been some rumblings that Marvel Studios was meeting with Kiss Kiss Bang Bang director Shane Black to replace Favreau — a name almost everyone seemed to approve of. According to Deadline, all who approve can now celebrate, as it’s being reported that Black is in final negotiations for the job, which would be his first leap into the world of comic book movies.

For those of you who are unaware of Mr. Black, he’s done it all in Hollywood. He started as a writer and actor, penning the scripts for Lethal Weapon and a nostalgia favorite, The Monster Squad, with Fred Dekker. The same year he wrote those two movie, he also played the role of Hawkins in the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic, Predator. He also went on to write and produce titles like The Last Boyscout and The Long Kiss Goodnight.

But it’s the aforementioned Kiss Kiss Bang Bang that Black is best known for. It’s the only movie he’s directed so far, but it’s also immensely popular and the reason fans are excited about the thought of him handling Iron Man 3. If you haven’t seen it, put it on your immediate to-do list and thank me later.

Black also worked with star Robert Downey Jr. on that movie, which is just another reason the director seems to be a great fit. This could also work as a strategic move; if Downey Jr. had any doubts about whether he wanted to return or not, his motivations should be reignited by a director he likes and respects.

Iron Man 3 is currently slated for release on May 3, 2013.