[Shaun]

Kick-Ass 2 is due for release next May, it has emerged.

John Romita Jr, the series' artist, revealed at a world record signing and sketching attempt over the weekend that deals are in place for the follow-up and that shooting will begin imminently. He also said that he is hoping to develop an animated sequence for the movie.

Writer Mark Millar appeared to confirm the news on Twitter.com/MrMarkMillar, saying only: "Sorry, I can't answer any Kick-Ass 2 specifics for a day or two, but suffice to say that Matthew [Vaughn] and I are very happy. More soon."

Millar later linked to a story in the Hollywood Reporter saying that Vaughn is close to a deal with Universal to produce the sequel. He is unlikely to return to direct it since he is expected to be busy with a follow-up to X-Men: First Class. He has apparently chosen Never Back Down helmer Jeff Wadlow to direct.

Aaron Johnson and Christopher Mintz-Passe are both expected to return, although there is doubt that Chloe Moretz will be able to reprise her scene-stealing role of Hit Girl, as she will likely have a scheduling conflict with Carrie.

Vaughn wrote the script for the project, which adapts not only Kick-Ass 2, the recent comic miniseries, but also the spinoff Hit-Girl, which is due in stores next month. The Hit-Girl storyline will be the first act of the movie, according to sources.

He self-financed the first film, which took $96 million (£59 million) on a budget of $30 million (£19 million).