A recent report suggests that production on he's since been brought back on to helm the third entry. The film was originally expected to arrive in theaters sometime next year, but with production now reportedly set to begin in a couple of years, the film will arrive in theaters at a later date.

The cosmic team fans have come to love over the last few years were initially just part of an obscure comic book until Gunn turned them into a major hit worldwide beginning with 2014's threatened to quit the film at one point. Despite that, the film is moving forward and production looks to start in a couple of years.

Related: Guardians of the Galaxy 3 Probably Won’t Release Until 2023

According to Gunn will first devote all his time to The Suicide Squad before shifting his focus towards Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3., which will be filmed under the working title of "Hot Christmas".

James Gunn DC Marvel Movie

While that means the film itself wouldn't arrive for several more years, fans who've been waiting for a third entry can be excited knowing it's one step closer. And, if production does begin in February of 2021 that would give Gunn enough time to wrap on The Suicide Squad so that all of his attention can be shifted toward completing the trilogy he started in 2014. The decision to rehire Gunn may not sit well with some, but there's no denying that he's been a key piece in the success of the Guardians of the Galaxy films, so his involvement means another hit is on the way.

While plans involving the production of a film could always change, hopefully, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 stays on track. It's been nearly two years since the second entry released, and fans have been clamoring for more ever since. However, by the time the third film reaches theaters, it'll be the longest gap in between movies for the series. And, while a release date isn't yet known, news regarding its release should become more specific once Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 begins production.

More: The Marvel/DC War is Over, Thanks to James Gunn

Source: Production Weekly (via Comic Book)