Confirmed (?) - Gary Ross is leaving The Hunger Games franchise

Earlier today it was revealed that FOX and Lionsgate had worked out their filming schedule conflict with their two films X-Men: First Class 2 and Catching Fire. This agreement meant that actress Jennifer Lawrence would be able to star in both films. Fans rejoiced at the news of the agreement and looked forward to more positive news in the future. However, mere hours later The Hunger Games franchise has delivered upsetting news to its fans.

The Playlist has confirmed that co-writer and director of The Hunger Games, Gary Ross, will not be returning to direct Catching Fire. Many will first assume that this had to do with the financial issues that were being reported about Ross wanting a raise for the next film. The Playlist confirms that this was only part of Ross' decision to leave the franchise.

"we're told the burning desire simply isn't there to spend another couple of years with Katniss in the Capitol (evidently, he also liked the first book best). And while the lowball salary offer probably didn't help, Ross already has a fairly lucrative career as a screenwriter (and rewriter) and money isn't really the issue. Simply put, the filmmaker is looking to change things up for his next effort."

So now the search is on for Lionsgate to find a new director for Catching Fire which is set to start filming in August/September. I would imagine that Lionsgate was looking around at possible directors as all this was going on, so hopefully Ross stepping down is just a small speedbump in the road for Catching Fire. I personally feel Gary Ross did an amazing job with The Hunger Games so hopefully someone of equal caliber and vision (or better) is found to keep the franchise alive and thriving.

Catching Fire is slated to hit theaters on November 22, 2013.

*EDIT*: Gary Ross is scheduled to sit down with Lionsgate today to talk further about his involvement with Catching Fire. Could he still be our director??

Source: The Playlist