Philip Seymour Hoffman signs on for 'Hunger Games' sequel

Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman has signed on for 'Catching Fire', the sequel to box-office record breaking film 'The Hunger Games'.

'Capote' star Hoffman will take on the role of Plutarch Heavensbee  after signing a contract initially floated to him "right before the Fourth of July holiday" according to E!News.

Hoffman's character takes over from Seneca Crane (Wes Bentley) following his exit. The character is in charge of overseeing the annual Hunger Games tournament that sees a small group of teenagers battle each other to death within a complex arena as the public looks on ala 'The Running Man' and 'Battle Royale'.

The actor is known more for his serious parts in more independent-based productions such as 'Magnolia', 'The Ides of March' and his own directorial debut 'Jack Goes Boating'. His last franchise film was as the villain in 'Mission Impossible 3'.

Hoffman will join Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Donald Sutherland and Woody Harrelson who are all expected to return.

There have also been reports that 'Sucker Punch' actress Jena Malone will be taking on a part as well, but this has not yet been confirmed.

'Catching Fire' will be directed by Francis Lawrence after Gary Ross bowed out. The film is scheduled for release in November 2013 and will be followed by the final film, 'Mockingjay' after that.

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