Rumors that Philip Seymour Hoffman will play Plutarch Heavensbee in Catching Fire, the second movie of the hit Hunger Games franchise, are all but confirmed.

E! News reports that Hoffman has already signed on to play the highly coveted role.

According to a source, "the deal was made right before the Fourth of July holiday." The Hollywood Reporter was first to report that the Oscar-winning actor, 44, was offered the part in early June.

Related: Jennifer Lawrence Dishes 'Catching Fire'

Hoffman will be playing the new Head Gamemaker, taking the place of Seneca Crane (played by Wes Bentley), who reveals himself to be much more than he at first lets on as the plot unfolds.

Other potentially huge Hunger Games casting news?

According to The Hollywood Reporter, actress Jena Malone has already been offered the past of Johanna Mason, the tough as nails last surviving female Hunger Games winner from District 7.

Related: Francis Lawrence to Direct 'Catching Fire'

Catching Fire, directed by Francis Lawrence, is set to start shooting in the fall and will hit theaters November 22, 2013.