In something of what seems to be a jaw-dropping exclusive, Variety are reporting that the forthcoming Disney TV streaming service is loading up some of its big guns to entice paying viewers.

According to their report, the channel will be producing live-action series featuring some of their existing Marvel Cinematic Universe characters, including Loki and Scarlet Witch. As if that news wasn’t exciting enough, it seems these characters will be played by their MCU actors, such as Tom Hiddleston and Elizabeth Olsen.

While the channel has yet to make an official announcement, Variety seem confident in their reporting, and while further details on the shows haven’t been revealed, suggestions are they’ll have substantial budgets and may run for six to eight episodes each (meaning they’ve hopefully learned valuable lessons from the always-overstretched Netflix/Marvel shows).

Adding further interest, it appears the shows will not be produced under the Marvel TV banner, which has produced variable results with series including Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D and Inhumans (about which, the less said the better), instead they will fall under Marvel Studios (producers of the MCU).

Disney are betting big with their new service, and with these new shows added to an already impressive line-up (including the Star Wars live-action show, as well as a High School Musical show and a live-action Lady and the Tramp movie), it’s pretty certain they’ll be giving Netflix a run for its money.

As ever, more news as it comes…

Photo c/o Disney/Marvel