Model Zoe Aggeliki is now the lead contender to play Johanna Mason, a key role in the upcoming sci-fi action adventure ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,’ Deadline is reporting. The news comes after the recent announcement that indie darling Jena Malone was in discussion to play the all-important role in the first sequel to this year’s hit original film in the series, ‘The Hunger Games.’ Mia Wasikowska was also previously in discussions with the second installment’s director, Francis Lawrence, to portray Johanna.

Aggeliki, who tried out for the part of Johanna, reportedly has the edge over Wasikowska and Malone, the latter of whom also auditioned for the role. Aggeliki is unproven as an actress, despite appearing in the upcoming ‘R.I.P.D.’ and the ‘Percy Jackson’ sequel, ‘Sea of Monsters,’ as she hasn’t appeared on screen yet. But she reportedly gave a more impressive turn when auditioning.

Johanna is an axe-enable District 7 warrior with an ability to murder. She also has the wit to fake pain that lures in gullible competitors. Johanna forms a bond with Katniss and Peeta in ‘Catching Fire,’ even though she and the series’ heroine often clash over how to win the title competition. ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’ is set to be released on November 23, 2013.

Written by: Karen Benardello