Harrelson beats out John C. Reilly for coveted role.
THR reports that Woody Harrelson has landed the coveted role of Haymitch Abernathy in the big-screen adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novel ‘The Hunger Games,’ beating out John C. Reilly, who was recently in talks for the role.
Haymitch is a washed-up drunkard and the only living resident of District 12 ever to win the Hunger Games. When Katniss and Peeta ask him for help to train for the upcoming games, he agrees to sober up and mentor them.
Director Gary Ross said of the casting decision:
“Haymich is such an unforgettable character: funny cranky outrageous, sarcastic, impatient, biting but ultimately kind. I’m so grateful we have Woody Harrelson to play him. I can’t wait for us to get to work.”
Also joining the cast will be Stanley Tucci (‘Captain America,’ ‘The Lovely Bones’) as Caesar Flickerman, the the smooth-talking host of the Hunger Games. He is famous for turning any conversation around to the positive and finding humor in even the most dire circumstances.