Gary Ross Bows Out of Directing 'Hunger Games' Sequel

Gary Ross has bowed out of “The Hunger Games” sequel, citing time constraints for his exit.

His role in “Catching Fire” has been subject to much speculation in recent days, and late Tuesday, he and Lionsgate issued statements announcing his exit from the adaptation of Suzanne Collins' book.

"As a writer and a director, I simply don't have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule," Ross said, calling the decision a difficult one.

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Lionsgate, for its part, said that it was sorry that he was not returning for the second installment.

"We were really looking forward to making the movie with him," the studio said in a statement. "He did an incredible job on the first film and we are grateful for his work."        More