We posted earlier this week that Francis Lawrence, the director of such films as I Am Legend and Water for Elephants, was reportedly one of Lionsgate’s top choices to direct the sequel to the year’s biggest film so far, The Hunger Games. Well now, it’s official, as Lawrence has been extended (and will presumably accept) the offer today.

Other directors in contention for the slot were Alfonso Cuarón (Children of Men), Alejandro Gonzalez Iñáritu (Babel), Bennett Miller (Moneyball), David Cronenberg (A Dangerous Method), and more. In an exclusive report on the matter by The Hollywood Reporter, it was stated that Lawrence’s open schedule was a major factor in the decision. You’ll recall that the director of The Hunger Games, Gary Ross, had to drop from the sequel because he felt he didn’t have enough time to meets its November 2013 release date.

Can’t you just anticipate all the talk show appearances in which the star of the Hunger Games franchise, Jennifer Lawrence, will have to assert the fact that while she shares Francis’ last name, they are not related and no nepotism was involved in the decision?

Source: THR