Jena Malone Will Play Johanna Mason in "The Hunger Games" Sequel "Catching Fire"

There's big casting news for Lionsgate's The Hunger Games sequel, Catching Fire.

The Huffington Post reports that Jena Malone has officially been confirmed to play Johanna Mason for the highly anticipated sequel to The Hunger Games. The announcment comes three weeks after it was rumored the actress would be nabbing the role. She ultimately beat out Kristen Bell, who also wanted the role — a fan favorite from the books.

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In the best-selling triology by Suzanne Collins, Mason plays a large part of the Quarter Quell which happens every 25 years. The Hunger Games themsevles mark the anniversary of Capitol crushing a rebellion by District 13. Johanna a former Hunger Games winner from timber-producing District 7 who has an edgy relationship with District 12 victor Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence).

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With Johanna cast, there's still one more major role that needs to be filled: the dashing Finnick Odair. It's been said Sam Clafin will snag it, but the studio will not comment on casting rumors.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is due in theaters on Nov. 22, 2013, with an all star lineup including Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Lenny Kravitz, Amanda Plummer and Philip Seymour Hoffman.