Iron Man will need a director to help get him off the ground in the next sequel.

Jon Favreau, the man behind the first two installments, recently announced that he won’t be participating on Iron Man 3.

It’s unclear exactly why Favreau has chosen to leave the successful franchise, but it’s believed a lack of direction – and his growing paycheck – were both factors.

Because the film would hit screens after Thor (May 6, 2011) and The Avengers (May 4, 2012), it’s unclear what the plot of Iron Man 3 would be about. That’s a concern Jon expressed to MTV.

“In theory, Iron Man 3 is going to be a sequel or continuation of Thor, Hulk, Captain America and Avengers,” Favreau said, “This whole world … I have no idea what it is. I don’t think they do either, from conversations I’ve had with those [Marvel execs].”

One insider claims the studio may have elevated the confusion – on purpose. If Jon backed away from the series, they could find someone to helm the project at a lower price.

Either way, Robert Downey Jr. would have to approve of the final selection since he has that written into his contract.

Iron Man 3 is schedule for release on May 3, 2013.