Gary Ross Not Directing “Catching Fire”
News from The Hollywood Reporter (and director Gary Ross himself) states that The Hunger Games director will not be sitting in the director’s chair of Catching Fire.
The highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster The Hunger Games is now on the search for a new director when Gary Ross put rumors to rest yesterday that he will not be continuing with The Hunger Games franchise.
“Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct Catching Fire,” Ross said in a statement. “As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule.”
Lionsgate issued a statement about Ross’ departure: “We’re very sorry that Gary Ross has chosen not to direct Catching Fire. We were really looking forward to making the movie with him. He did an incredible job on the first film, and we are grateful for his work. This will not be the end of our relationship, as we consider Ross to be part of the Lionsgate family and look forward to working with him in the future.”
Catching Fire, which will feature a returning Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth, is expected for a November 2013 release.
What do you think, The Hunger Game fans? Who should step into Ross’ shoes as director?
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