Jennifer Lawrence cast as Katniss in The Hunger Games

Jennifer Lawrence has scored the coveted role of Katniss Everdeen in the highly anticipated, Gary Ross directed adaptation of The Hunger Games, The Wrap confirms.

Lawrence was touted as the frontrunner with 14-year-old fellow Academy Award nominee Hailee Steinfeld at the start of March, but news overnight has confirmed Lawrence has signed on for the one of the hottest roles in Hollywood.

Lawrence seemed to appear from nowhere when she gained recognition and an Academy Award nomination for her role in 2010’s indie hit Winter’s Bone. It has not been confirmed but it is likely Lawrence has signed a three picture deal for what should become a highly successful franchise.

The bestselling series written by Suzanne Collins is a Battle Royale for the younger generation. It takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where the government of Panem (formerly North America) runs an annual televised competition called, you guessed it, The Hunger Games. One boy and one girl are chosen via lottery from each of twelve districts and thrown into an arena where it’s kill or be killed.

Expect news of the male lead casting soon, as we reported this week actor Josh Hutcherson is vying for the role of Peeta. Other young actors in contention are said to be I Am Number Four’s Alex Pettyfer and Hunter Parrish from TV’s Weeds.

Discuss: Do you think Lawrence is a good fit for Katniss?