Sam Claflin cast as Finnick in ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’

After wide speculation, Lionsgate confirmed that it has cast Sam Claflin, best known for his turn in “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” to portray the role of Finnick Odair in the upcoming sequel to”The Hunger Games.”

Charismatic and manipulative, Finnick, a former Hunger Games victor, is one of the most compelling new tributes Katniss Everdeen must face as she returns to the arena. Katniss forms a rather suspicious alliance with the charming victor, unsure of where his loyalties lie.

The role was one of much speculation with Internet chatter speculating on a slew of young actors that could play the integral part in the second chapter of the trilogy.

PHOTOS: Meet the main cast / characters of ‘The Hunger Games’

With Claflin securing the role, the 26-year old British actor is sure to see his star power skyrocket in a trajectory similar to “Hunger Games” stars Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth.

Claflin came to the attention of many moviegoers with his role as Phillip in the 2011 chapter of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise. He was next cast as William in “Snow White and the Huntsman.”

Production on “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” is set to begin next month in Atlanta and Hawaii under the direction of Francis Lawrence (“Water for Elephants”). Simon Beaufoy (“Slumdog Millionaire”) wrote the script with the most recent polish completed by Michael Arndt (“Toy Story 3”.)

The film is set to open Nov. 22, 2013.

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