Jennifer Lawrence Confirmed for The Hunger Games Lead as Another Actor Lines Up for Peeta Role
Posted 03.18.11 by Ryan
Earlier this week, Lionsgate was reportedly closing in on Jennifer Lawrence (Winter's Bone) for the lead role in The Hunger Games, the studio's upcoming adaptation of the novel by Suzanne Collins. However, though Lionsgate seemed to have made their choice, Lawrence was reportedly without an offer, leaving many to wonder if another actress might land the role after all.
Not so, reports Entertainment Weekly. Lionsgate has confirmed Lawrence for the role of Katniss Everdeen, the teenage tribute from District 12 of Collins' dystopian future who is picked to compete in a televised fight to the death called "The Hunger Games". The casting of the Oscar nominated actress won the approval of Collins.
Jennifer’s just an incredible actress. So powerful, vulnerable, beautiful, unforgiving and brave. I never thought we’d find somebody this perfect for the role. And I can’t wait for everyone to see her play it.
Production on The Hunger Games is set to begin this spring, giving director Gary Ross (Seabiscuit) time to cast the other roles, such as fellow 12th district tribute Peeta Mallark, which has seen interest from several young actors. Liam Hemsworth (The Last Song) has previously expressed interest in the part, while both Josh Hutcherson (The Kids Are All Right) and Alex Pettyer (I Am Number Four) recently revealed that they have been approached for the part. However, Weeds actor Hunter Parrish could land the role instead.
E! Online reports that Parrish has revealed that he is in talks for the role, and is hopeful that he will be chosen.
I've met the producers, I'd be grateful to get the opportunity. Like, really grateful. It would be amazing.
While nothing is confirmed yet, Parrish has received plenty of support from online fans.
You don't get much better than that, the true fans of the book. So regardless of whether I'm a part of the film or not, I feel honored to just sort of be thought of. I read the books all last year, and I guess they're starting filming soon.
Speaking before the confirmation of Lawrence, Parrish was hoping that the actress would land the role over the 30-plus actresses that were in contention for the part.
If it's Jennifer [Lawrence], man, sign me up! I think if it ended up being Hailee Steinfeld or Saoirse [Ronan] or who's the other one? Abigail Breslin. Then it would be weird. It would be really weird.
Lawrence's age is one reason why Lionsgate likely went with Lawrence, allowing the studio a wider range of actors to fill in the other parts.
Next Showing: The Hunger Games opens March 23, 2012