Rob Pattinson fell for ‘Hunger Games’ casting rumors: who should play Finnick?

Rob Pattinson

This is just a cute story and one that (even the most begrudging) fans of Robert Pattinson would appreciate for its self-deprecating nature. Apparently, there’s been quite a lot of buzz in the Hunger Games casting department in regard to the upcoming sequel, Catching Fire. In particular, online rumors (which likely originated on the movie’s IMDb board) have indicated that Robert Pattinson might have been a possibility for the coveted role of the sexy and seductive former victor Finnick. In an amusing twist, Rob has revealed that he initially believed these rumors, and he was crushed to learn that he was not in running for the role. Poor Sparkles, right?

Some rumors are so good, that they even get the movie stars involved believing. Even if it’s only for a few minutes.

Robert Pattinson woke up Saturday morning at the Cannes Film Festival, the morning after his triumphant premiere in Cosmopolis, and saw Internet reports that he was being considered for Catching Fire, the sequel to The Hunger Games.

“I woke up this morning and saw all these things about me being cast in The Hunger Games,” Pattinson tells USA TODAY. “I was kind of curious for a second. So I called my agent.”

The response?

“My agent was like, ‘No,’ ” Pattinson reports.

“(My agent) was like no one’s going to offer you that part,” Pattinson says, breaking into a laugh. “I was like, thanks for the reassurance.”

But Pattinson was riding a high after his new film Cosmopolis (due out in the U.S. in August) received a standing ovation in Cannes with girlfriend Kristen Stewart in attendance.

Even that was stressful. The ovation came after director David Cronenberg warned him that the Cannes audience can be harsh.

“David tells me the night before, ‘I’m fully expecting some boos,'” says Pattinson. “I was literally like, ‘Why are you telling me this?'”

“I literally didn’t watch one second of the movie, I was waiting for people to walk out,” says Pattinson. “I was expecting a fight.”

It was only hours afterward that Pattinson was able to wind down at the film’s after-party.

“It took a full three hours of continued panic,” says Pattinson. “Full adrenaline. It was just too weird.”

[From USA Today]

Poor Rob. Of course, he’s got a lot of stuff coming up in the new future including playing the soldier who led to the capture of Saddam Hussein. So Sparkles will be alright; in fact, he’ll be more than alright. Still, I can’t help but feel a little twinge of sorrow for his presumably downcast face when learning that he was not wanted for the role of Finnick.

On that note, who should play the seductive yet ultimately damaged Finnick? I’ve racked my brain on previous occasions for the answer to this question, and the only actor I can come up with is Taylor Kitsch. Thoughts?

Taylor Kitsch

Taylor Kitsch

Photos courtesy of WENN

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167 Responses to “Rob Pattinson fell for ‘Hunger Games’ casting rumors: who should play Finnick?”

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  1. fluffybunny says:

    Armie Hammer should play Finnick. He’s 6’5, grew up on the Cayman Islands, knows how to sail, enjoys water sports and he apparently ties knots when he’s not doing anything…hobby? Weird, but apparently true. People (twihards) are only suggesting Robert because he was horribly miscast in Francis Lawrence’s last film. Can anyone honestly see anyone that scrawny picking up Josh Hutcherson? And playing against Jennifer Lawrence…that woman has more talent in the tip of her right pinky finger nail than Pattinson does in his entire body.

    • Samigirl says:

      I am kicking myself for not thinking of him. Good choice!

    • gee says:

      He is exactly who I pictured. Literally, the person I think needs to be casted.

    • Chris says:

      Josh Hutcherson is a tiny dude so I’m sure even Jennifer Lawrence can pick him up. No big deal for Rob. Before Twilight came out there was a 75k petition for Rob not to play Edward and once he became Edward Cullen the fans became so obsessed with him that it became unbearable. There is no doubt in my mind the same thing would happen here. It’s laughable listening to people protest a role I’m sure he had no interest in. He wants adult roles now and is done with the teen audience for a little while. I’m sure he’ll go back once adult roles become less interesting.

      • fluffybunny says:

        He couldn’t even pick up Kristen without dropping her and pulling muscles. Josh probably weighs two or three times that amount. Just because someone isn’t tall, doesn’t mean they’re easy to pick up. I should clarify however, that among the suggestions for this part is some skinny kid from Glee who looks like he’s barely hit puberty Grant somethingerrather and a few other skinny boys.

        I have a lot of feels about this. lol. If they cast an unknown who can act and looks the part, I’m good. Just noone from Twishite. And someone he has to be someone who has hit puberty and looks like a man.

      • Chris says:

        fluffy, he just picked her up wrong that time. Don’t make it more than it is to suit your silly arguments. Like I said, even though it would be a career set back I almost wish he had been cast just to see how THG fans would become obsessed. Are there THG fans who still think Jennifer Lawrence too Fat? What about the racists? You guys need to look at more important matters like the deep rooted racism that exists in your fandom. It’s disgusting.

    • Chris says:

      I like Armie Hammer for Finnick as well. Not sure he’d be interested in this role though.

      • fluffybunny says:

        Why are you getting all pissy? I’m just pointing out that he admitted to dropping her and pulling muscles. I also added other suggestions that are also too scrawny. No big. As for the racists, well they can go die in a fire and take their shitty reading comprehension with them. And no one I know thinks than Jen is too fat. Film critics on the other hand….that’s not a THG fandom thing.

        I apologise in advance if I say any more mean things about the Lord Pattinson. I know not what I do…

      • Chris says:

        “As for the racists, well they can go die in a fire.”

        Thanks fluffly for saying that. I’m really bothered by how prevalent they are in the THG fandom. It’s one of the reasons that even though I don’t think Jessie Williams is an exact match, I want him or someone not white to get the role.

      • fluffybunny says:

        What the hell? Prevalent? I’ve not seen anyone in THG fandom express anything like those comments on twitter. If you think that they’re widespread then you’re not looking in the right places. Every single blog/twitter/tumblr I follow, in relation to those racist comments were disgusted. Of course no one with more that two brain cells to rub together is going to approve of disgusting shit like that. God almighty.

        Besides, how did this turn into commenting about how you think racism is “prevalent” in THG fandom because I made a tongue in cheek comment about how Robert Pattinson is too scrawny to pick up Josh Hutcherson? Talk about taking a leap. I think you’ll find people not wanting anyone from Twishite in the Hunger Games is more prevalent than racism or thinking Jen Lawrence is fat.

      • Silk Spectre says:

        @fluffybunny, you asked

        “Besides, how did this turn into commenting about how you think racism is “prevalent” in THG fandom because I made a tongue in cheek comment about how Robert Pattinson is too scrawny to pick up Josh Hutcherson?”

        Because, that’s how people in the internet (and, to be fair, the world) think depating is done: if they can’t rationally argue againts your actual point, they’ll attack you on something that’s kind of related but really not. The “you jealous hater, you” thing is also an example of this.

      • Chris says:

        fluffy, I don’t follow the THG fandom but that has been one of the big stories in the mainstream media. It was on MSN’s and Yahoo’s front pages and a number of news stories and blogs. The biggest stories related to Rue.

    • Maria says:

      I always pictured Finnick as somewhat Cajun, partly because District 4 encompasses the gulf coast. If Armie can do a slight twang, he would be perfect for me.

      • Tiffany says:

        I nominate the lovely RYAN KWANTEN from True Blood (Jason)!!!!!

        * He was a champion at water sports in his native Australia.

        * He looks HOT with little clothing on.

        * He is a great actor, and could use a role to show off his depth and skills.

        * Did I mention he looks hot with little clothing on?

    • embertine says:

      Emphatically co-signed.

    • Talie says:

      I think Armie, Garret Hedlund and Taylor Kitsch should all be on the shortlist.

    • another nina says:

      I dunno, Arnie sort of screams “privileged” to me…and I don’t think this is a good message in Hunger Games context.

      • fluffybunny says:

        Hmm perhaps. I wasn’t sold at first, but I kept seeing him everywhere as a suggestion and now I’m all like “GIVE ME ARMIE OR GIVE ME DEATH”. Not really, but you get my point. lol.

        @Chris; you need to read more widely then.

        @silk spectre; good point. Especially that hater bit.

      • I do like the idea of Jesse Williams, or at least that look, for Finnick. I’m kind of tired of seeing him portrayed as a ginger/redhead when that just doesn’t go along with the (minimal) description. Super tan with bronze hair and green eyes. I can get on board with Garret Hedlund too.

    • Ann says:

      Sorry, I just can’t unsee Hammer in that career-killing role in Mirror Mirror. To go to the other end of the spectrum as Finnick, I just can’t buy it.

  2. marie says:

    ha ha, his reaction made me laugh..But no, I can’t see him getting offered the part because all people would think about during the movie is-why is that Twilight guy in this movie. Ok, maybe I’m the only one who would think of that..

  3. Chelsey says:

    I’ve always pictured Chris Evans as Finnick.

  4. Samigirl says:

    Other Hunger Games fans are probably going to hate me for this, but I have 2 people in my head as Finnick.

    The dude who plays Puck on Glee (Mark Salling?). He definitely plays confident and damaged well, and he is handsome.

    Zac Efron. You can’t deny the boy is pretty enough for the higher ups in the Capitol to
    want to spill their secrets.

    Edit-I take it all back…@fluffybunny wins =)

    • Esmom says:

      Ooh good call on Mark Salling. I’d love to see him as someone other than Puck. I stopped watching Glee in the middle of season 2 and kinda miss his hotness on my screen!

    • fluffybunny says:

      hahaha @samigirl. Go team me!

  5. Dorothy#1 says:

    No to Taylor, he is in no way hot enough. Finnick is supposed to be ridiculously good looking. I know Zac Efron is too short but he is cute enough. 🙂

  6. Eve says:

    “…and the only actor I can come up with is Taylor Kitsch.”

    No. Just no.

  7. cupidtyrox says:

    Can’t they just go with an unknown actor? Hollywood constantly dips in the same small(untalented) pool.

  8. Chris says:

    I am 100% sure Rob had zero interest in this role.

    • ORLY says:

      When did you last talk to him? 😀

      • agree says:

        Look at the projects he has coming up – Blacklist, The Rover, Map of the Stars, The Scorcese Band movie…. a bit different than Catching Fire!! He is trying to distance himself from these big teen franchise things. It doesn’t require a conversation with him to figure out where his interest lies…

      • ORLY says:

        You’re missing the point. I don’t care about Rob’s roles. I’m not much of a fan and don’t follow his career choices. She said she was “100% sure”, which can only mean she has spoken to him directly about this.

        I don’t think anyone wants Rob for THG either, he’s too twilight. Going from one franchise, which is still so active, to another is unheard of.
        They’ll likely choose someone unknown.

      • Chris says:

        Alright. I concede. 99%. Geez.

  9. ssa says:

    When I was reading the books I always pictured Taylor Kitsch and that’s probably bc I was really into FNL at the time (still am) but since I read about Jesse Williams, I would love him too. So Williams or Kitsch get my vote.

  10. Esmom says:

    I just love Rob and his neurotic outlook in Hollywood. Kinda like Hugh Grant but not as smarmy.

    He’s hilarious and seems pretty darn grounded and humble, especially given the Twilight insanity. But then I’m a sucker for a charmingly neurotic guy. Adorable.

    • agree says:

      He is always entertaining! You know his interviews will never be boring.

      And I can’t imagine he would be interested in this role in a million years. I hope his humor comes through and people don’t actually think he was disappointed!!

      • another nina says:

        I listened to a few of his interviews in Cannes and he sounds rather boring this time around…The only funny and weird moment was about Charliz routinely finding his socks and underwear at his house at night, and sniffing out some “surprises”. I imagine Pattinson’s socks were literary standing in the corner on their own and Charliz tripped over them;)

      • jess says:

        Hes not dissapointed. He said “thanks for the reassurance” after his manager said he wasnt offered the part. Im actually surprised that no one took that as a diss. He just left one lame franchise the last thing he wants is to join another lame franchise. Hes trying to build his career and get respect joining the hunger games is a step backwards.

      • marie says:

        I don’t think he meant “thanks for the reassurance” as a diss.. it sounded to me like he was saying “wow, thanks for the vote of confidence”. it was meant to be funny, as in he would never get offered that part.. just my opinion though.

    • mia girl says:

      +1 But I’ll add: I’m a sucker for a charmingly neurotic “English” guy.

      It was fun to watch him at Cannes last week. Lots of great interviews and Robert wearing suits. Win win.

    • ahoyhoy says:

      It’s so funny you say that. I know NOTHING about Twilight, never seen any, never read any—but the Pattinson kid I find myself rooting for, for exactly the reasons you say. He is self-deprecating to a fault (so English!), and seems to take almost anything is stride.

      He gives you the impression that if the acting thing doesn’t pan out, he’ll be fine, and have great stories to tell.

      • Esmom says:

        Yes, exactly. It’s like he can maintain a certain bemused distance even while being in the thick of the Hollywood cesspool. Charming, as I said.

        And yes, Miagirl, his Englishness is definitely part of the overall charm!

  11. INeedANap says:

    Chris Pine anyone? He annoys me as a person, but he has that great memorable good-looking quality Finnick is supposed to have.

    • Chris says:

      Chris Pine would not take this role. He’s a leading man.

    • Eve says:

      He annoys me as a person, but he has that great memorable good-looking

      More like “he has that great memorable forehead that reminds me of Frankenstein” — I swear the only thing missing for Pine to become the living version of Mary Shelley’s character are those little thingies on his neck.

      P.S.: Pine annoys me as everything — while I was watching Star Trek (for Zachary Quinto — who is awesome as Spock) I kept wondering why he was cast. That scene where he’s supposed to look cool and a reckless badass — while eating an apple — grated on my nerves.

  12. Geo says:

    Charlie Hunnam! He’s perfect without the goatee. He’s a great actor and not mainstream. Could be a great role for him to be known! I love him in Sons of Anarchy!

    • Eve says:

      I thought about him too.

    • mia girl says:

      This is a VERY good suggestion.

    • jermsmom says:

      Hum-a-na-hum-a-na for Hunnam. Yummy.

    • the original bellaluna says:

      I’m down with ANYTHING that involves a practically naked Charlie Hunnam. He’s very comfortable with his body and nudity; he just OOZES sexy; and he’s got the eyes and bod for the part.

      But his SOA commitment may conflict with filming the last 2 movies. (Though since they make us wait a YEAR [dickheads!] for a new season, maybe not.)

  13. keats says:

    The guy who plays Jamie Lannister in Game of Thrones. I do like the Charlie Hunnam idea though

    • Samigirl says:

      He’s kind of…old for Finnick, I think.

      • keats says:

        I think I’m picturing finnick as slightly older than everyone else is…does it mention his age in the book?

      • the original bellaluna says:

        He’s 24. He won his Hunger Games at 14.

        I think that being the youngest winner of the Hunger Games and then being passed around to all the ho’s of District One would age ANYONE beyond their years.

        He could do it.

        Glad little one is doing well!

    • Samigirl says:

      24 or 25, I think.

      • keats says:

        Mk, i was thinkin around 30. So yeah, Jamie is too old, back to the drawing board.

    • Emily says:

      I’d like the guy who plays Jon Snow on GoT. But that’s partly just because I want to see him in some of the outfits Finnick wears.

      Or the blonde kid who plays Arthur on Merlin.

  14. serena says:

    Poor what?
    He’s not a pitiful man, come on.
    And I don’t even think he was upset about it (why would he think he got the part if he didn’t go to an audition in the first place). Maybe he was just perplexed.

    • LAK says:

      *A list and to a certain extent B list actors rarely audition. They are simply offerred the part.

      * rating depending on what hollywood standards.

  15. jermsmom says:

    I know he might be a little old (but still looks youthful) but I just picture Matt Bomer as Finnick. Throw some green contacts on those eyes and he is perfect.

  16. Jcamp11 says:

    I hadn’t considered Chris Evans, but that might work. I like Garrett Hedlund for Finnick. After watching last night’s first installment of Hatfield & McCoys, I’m wondering if a relative unknown like the beautiful guy who plays Johnsie Hatfield might do–he’s gorgeous, a little skinny but a trainer could remedy that.

    • Samigirl says:

      Totally OT, but was it awesome? It’s on my DVR. Couldn’t watch bc my children wore me out yesterday. My husband and I can’t watch until Weds, and I’m biting my nails in anticipation!!

      • Happy21 says:

        Me too!!! LOL, I’m saving it for the weekend 🙂 Super stoked though!

      • Jcamp11 says:

        Samigirl,
        H&M is great. The first 20 minutes or so on Monday were a little slow. . . building up to the feud. But then it’s like a freight train of bitterness and tragedy. It’s great.

    • SLM says:

      That actor playing Johnse Hatfield is one good-looking kid and I’m not even partial to blondes. A month or so on weights, add a little sun, and I could definitely see him as the distractingly handsome Finnick.

      Sami, Hatfields and McCoys, part one – I thought it was very well-done, true to the period, but it’s intense and sad. I’d recommend it.

    • another nina says:

      It’s Matt Barr, I assume…I sort of did not like him in FNL. He actually works a lot but mostly does TV.

    • the original bellaluna says:

      I could see Garrett as Finnick. He’d need to tan up and pack on some muscle weight (if Peeta can do it, so can he).

      I absolutely LOVED him in Four Brothers.

      On what channel/network is Hatfields and McCoys?

      • Samigirl says:

        The same network Pawn Stars comes on. Can’t remember the station name, I can’t wait to watch!!!

      • Jcamp11 says:

        It’s on the History Channel–three part mini-series. History is replaying it throughout the week, though.

      • the original bellaluna says:

        Ooooh, Ladies, I we just watched (and DVR’d) the whole H&M marathon this evening!!

        DANG!

  17. Katie says:

    I was thinking Alex Pettyfer would make a good Finnick. He’s a little young but I think he fits.

    • ORLY says:

      I’d agree, if not for the age thing, Alex would make a convincing Finnick.

      • Katija says:

        Agreed. Taylor Kitsch and the other names being thrown around are hot, but they’re a bit too manly. I think that Finnick is supposed to be a bit of a pretty boy… so that all the stuff that happens later is sort of a surprise.

      • ORLY says:

        Right, Finnick is introduced as a lady’s man and it’s surprising how vulnerable he really is. Gah. I can’t wait for this movie. I really hope they get the casting right.

      • katie says:

        I think they could convincingly age him. He’s pretty but he’s got a seething sort of anger just below the surface. Finnick is a complex character. You can’t just have a good looking guy playing the role. It has to be someone who is beautiful but broken. Also, it might be a good way for Alex to distance himself from his other mediocre, at best, roles.

      • Orly says:

        I agree 100% with everything in your last post.

  18. cheeseheads says:

    I can get the Charlie Hunnam recommendations, but when I read the book, the only actor that shot into my head was Philip Winchester. And please, casting directors? No Taylor Kitsch. He seems to be the kiss of death for possible blockbusters.

    • Eve says:

      He seems to be the kiss of death for possible blockbusters.

      LOL!

      Awww, I almost feel sorry for him now (almost).

  19. Lara says:

    With a name like Finnick it suggests to me someone Irish? So what about Jonathan Rhys Myers – gorgeous and we all know he’s pretty damaged!

    • ORLY says:

      I love JRM, except he is way too old to play Finnick, besides, Finnick’s district is by the ocean and he is tanned.

    • katie says:

      JRM is way too old and not nearly good looking enough. Finnick has to be almost pretty. Fine boned, I’d think. Not short and dark.

      • Esmom says:

        Did you see JRM in Match Point? He was achingly beautiful. So I could see him in the role of Finnick but only if he had a time machine. He is way too old now.

    • Doodle says:

      I agree with Lara. I always pictured JRM as Finnick.

  20. carly says:

    ohh please, like Rob really wants to be part of another teeny franchise, and be stuck with it for more years, he is moving on to bigger and better things, Im sure he is more than okay to not be in that movie

  21. Abby says:

    I think Zac Ephron would be the perfect Finnick. Shortness– how short is the guy that plays Peta? He’s a pocket boy. 🙂

  22. paola says:

    If we think about seductive man and actors able to paly as seductive men, Josh Jackson would be perfect, even if, I know, they will never take him in consideration.

  23. Belle says:

    Looks nothing like what the book described Finnick but i’m rooting for Jesse Williams! He’s beautiful, he’s beautiful, oh and did I mention he’s beautiful? lol. I would be a happy girl if he was on the big screen.

    • Mila says:

      Agree 100%

    • Ruffian9 says:

      Actually, I think he matches perfectly. Green eyes, ‘tan’ skin. Most importantly, he’s gorgeous!

      He is a tad too old at 30, but if Jen Lawrence is playing 16-17, I don’t see why Williams can’t play 24.

  24. Silk Spectre says:

    Taylor Kitsch is too young and too milquetoast to be Finnick. They need someone a bit older. Someone with gravitas.

    Edit, oh I just took a trip to wikipedia, and Finnick is only 24. Did not remember that. Still. No tween idols, please. Granted, Kitsch is hardly anyone’s idol, but I just don’t see him as… a real grown-up yet. It’s a mystery.

    • Kiki says:

      Taylor Kitsch is 31.

    • Llama says:

      Kitsch is 30 something. But he is indeed facial tofu. Also, while cluelessly endearing, he’s not particularly dashing.

      I’d go with Williams, he does have amazingly striking eyes.

      • Silk Spectre says:

        Really? Maybe it’s the endearingly clueless quality that made me think he’s younger. Also, apparently I just can’t be right about anyone’s age today.

        He’s very good-looking, but not dashing is right. He’s just not that charismatic, IMHO.

    • Tiffany says:

      My vote is for “Jason” on True Blood, Ryan Kwanten.

      I saw him on an episode of Law and Order, and he did such a GREAT job!

  25. Jess says:

    Rick Malambri from Step Up 3D would make a good Finnick 🙂

  26. Sunny says:

    Idk who is who in Friday night lights,but if u guys r talking about “Riggins” count me in!pure hotness.

  27. JennK says:

    I think the best person for that role is someone who isn’t big profile. Taylor Kitch is WAY to old, and he has had 2 bombs this year, no way they will cast him.

    They did well (with the exception of the main leads) to cast little unknowns, and I think that they should stick to that. It’s also nice to see fresh faces. If you casted someone huge then the movie would turn into the Pattinson show, and that just take away from it.

  28. Mrs.Darcy says:

    I ALWAYS pictured Alex Skarsgard as Finnick, don’t know why. I never realised Finnick was only 24, I got the impression he was a bit older so that kind of rules out the big Swede in the age casting unfortunately if they stick with that.Bummer, I think he’s physically perfect for the role.

    • Samigirl says:

      I thought the exact same thing. Except for the age, ASkars is perfect. That’s ok though, his age plays NO factor in my fantasies! 😉

      Less than 2 weeks until TB. I could care less about the story lines at this point…it’s alllll about that Viking!

      • fluffybunny says:

        So do not get the Alexander Skarsgard love…but I don’t watch True Blood so maybe its that whole vampire thing.

      • another nina says:

        Worse comes to worse, they can try one of 5 Skars brothers – one of them sort of resembles him…

      • Samigirl says:

        I’ve loved vampires since Buffy and Angel, but I just think ASkars is pretty 🙂

      • rufustfirefly says:

        I think age is just a number. If you can play the part convincingly and bring it, then bring it! Skars definitely brings it. He can easily switch from young and playful to experienced and world-weary in the bat of an eye. He is the embodiment of gravitas. It’s not just the vampire thing. Generation Kill made me sit up and take notice of the big Swede. Eric Northman kept me coming back.

      • the original bellaluna says:

        See, I was thinking Josh Holloway. He’s gorgeous; got the eyes; got the tan; got the build!

      • Esmom says:

        If age was not a factor I would have wanted Brad Pitt as Peeta instead of Josh H. Sorry to digress.

    • the original bellaluna says:

      If times are as hard as the book says, it wouldn’t surprise me one bit if the characters look a older than their years. (Not to mention what the Hunger Games themselves would do age a kid!)

      Yes, Finnick is only 24 – he’s the youngest to win the Hunger Games, at the age of 14. The Quarter Quell is 10 years later.

      • fluffybunny says:

        This is why I don’t understand when fans suggest boys not men. Finnick is a dude who has been through a lot of horrible s***, he may be attractive but in my imagination he’s not someone who’s unmarred.

        I’ve never seen Jesse Williams in anything, but he certainly fits the part. He’s got pretty eyes…

      • the original bellaluna says:

        @ fluffybunny: Precisely, thank you. I don’t want a “pretty boy” playing a role that should clearly go to a man. He was coveted by The Capital because he won, and he won at 14; he cooperated to save his love, Annie. Just because a man is big and buff doesn’t mean he’s not attractive.

        And lawd knows what the people in The Capitol consider attractive!

      • fluffybunny says:

        According to E the top three finalists for the role are Armie, Garrett and Taylor. This is E we’re talking about, but I’m holding onto the fact that if Marc Malkin reported it and not Ted Casablanca it could be 60% true.

        I have issues particularly with that Grant Gleekid being suggested. He looks like he’d snap in a gentle breeze or fall over trying to hold a trident.

  29. Christina says:

    Finnick should be played by Ryan Kwatan. He’s perfect.

    • Tiffany says:

      YESSSSSS!!!!!!!

      He is perfect for the role! He has been my favorite, I am so glad someone else thinks so too!

      He used to be a champion at water sports in Australia (he was on his way to swim meet when his brothers agent had him audition). I think he would be perfect!

  30. Mia says:

    I always thought Finnick would look like that guy who plays Cesare on The Borgias…he’s probably not famous enough for anyone to think of him though maybe?

  31. Sarah says:

    Chris Hemsworth as Finnick. That is all.

    • Amy says:

      RPattz would be Finnick before Chris Hemsworth would. That is to say, never going to happen.

    • Linny says:

      It’d be a little weird if Finnick and Gale looked that much alike.

    • katie says:

      Hemsworth is too broad and manly. Plus, Liam is already Gale and they are pretty much carbon copies of each other.

  32. Amy says:

    I love Kitsch, but I don’t want him as Finnick. He’s good looking but Finnick’s “natural beauty” is mentioned more than once, making me think he’s less hot and more of a pretty boy? Kitsch is a little too rugged for that. That being said, I don’t know who I would cast. I don’t think there’s an actor who IS Finnick that we are aware of. It’d be great to see a fresh face!

    • Katija says:

      Amy – I said the same thing above. Finnick is supposed to be this pretty heartthrob that all of the Capitol lusts after. Normally my response to mention of the Efron would be a resounding “NOOOOOOOOOOO!”… but he’d be good for this. I mean – and this isn’t really spoiling anything – Katniss’ first impression of Finnick is that he’s this egomaniac celebrity hottie… that’s a huge part of his character.

      • Amy says:

        I disagree with Efron because, in my own opinion, he looks too young. I know he’s in his 20s like Finnick (if what someone posted above is correct, I can’t recall his age in the book myself), but I think Jennifer Lawrence looks older than he does and I wouldn’t buy it.

      • ORLY says:

        1000% NOOOOO to Zefron. I almost hyperventilated at the NO-ness of it. hahahaha

  33. Anne says:

    The character is described as having tan skin. I think Jesse Williams would be perfect.

  34. JessSaysNo says:

    Finnick O’dair is totally an Irish name but I picture THG characters as mixed race because its set far in the future. Mark Salling is like exactly who I pictured in my minds eye.

  35. Jaime says:

    Rob was totally kidding around. He knew he was never in the running for the part, but was very tactful not to insult the part, or the movie. He’s cool like that.

  36. Reece says:

    I really hope they find an unknown or little known actor. All the guys everyone here is talking about are either, IMO, good but too old ie Armie Hammer & Charlie Hunnam or just a no, No! ie Zac Efron & Taylor Kitsch.

    Awww Robert. haha Just when I think I’m out he pulls me back in. Damnit!

  37. Rachface24 says:

    What about Wentworth Miller or Tom Welling, both tan, green eyes and ridiculously good looking

  38. Alicenne says:

    Sidebar – can we talk about the rumour that Dianna Agron is cast as Johanna? I think I just threw up a little. Surely, surely this cannot be true!

    • Katija says:

      Noooooo… I’d believe her as Annie before I’d believe her as Johanna!!! (And yes, I know, Annie is a brunette.)

      Johanna is one of those rare, rare book chars where a celeb face actually came to mind when reading. A young Katherine Heigl kept being the image in my head. I know, I know! Horrible casting… probably why I don’t work in Hollywood.

      Kristen Bell wants it BAD, and goshdarn if she doesn’t deserve it. She’s a THG fangirl, and I think on that alone, she deserves a part. 😉

    • katie says:

      Can we all agree that virtually none of the Glee cast has acting chops? Save maybe Mark Salling and Heather Morris. Dianna Agron is the absolute worst, even worse than Corey Monteith.

    • the original bellaluna says:

      Please tell me you’re kidding. I just ate. Somebody bad-ass like Michelle Rodriguez needs that part.

  39. Garret Hedlund or Armie Hammer are my favorites for the role, but I like Taylor Kitch too (despite his box-office poison reputation).

    We’re going to get the shortlist soon though, they start filming in August so he’s got to be cast NOW!

  40. Crystal says:

    Ugh.
    How ’bout NO !!!
    Keep Twilight and The Hunger Games away from each other.
    Robert can’t act to save his life but he would never go for this role. He just got good reviews at Cannes, so do you really think he’ll sign to another franchise ? He’s just about to wash his hands off Twilight. He’s probably looking for more serious roles, not another hearthrob role.
    Jesse Williams please…Who am I kidding they’ll choose another white guy. Wouldn’t want to upset THG fandom by hiring a POC. Those racist assholes.

    • fluffybunny says:

      Beg pardon? Racist assholes? You’re tainting all of us by a few morons who made disgusting comments? Gee thanks.

  41. Anne says:

    I saw this article on EW.com and haven’t been able to think of anyone but Ryan Kwanten. He might not be that tall, but some of the day that Finnick acts in the books is a little Jason Stackhouse-esq.
    http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/03/26/hunger-games-finnick-catching-fire/

  42. jesstar says:

    When I read it, I pictured a young Brad Pitt in Thelma & Louise, tan, beach body & famous for being charming, good looking & sexy. The only ones that come close now are Chris Hemsworth or Alex Pettyfer (if they cover those ears with long hair) who can also handle the acting that the character will require. Unless Shemar Moore has a 20something clone, not sure if a non-white actor will be cast.

    • Esmom says:

      Haha. I just mentioned above that I pictured Brad Pitt (young BP) as Peeta. His face was Peeta in my mind throughout the books.

  43. the original bellaluna says:

    Jesse Williams (Grey’s Anatomy) or the hot African American guy on that new USA show with LAPD partners in couples therapy. They’re both gorgeous specimens of manhood; and they both “have eyes the colour of the ocean” (which is open to interpretation, dependent upon where in Northern America said ocean is located).

    (We’ve been debating this on Jezebel for WEEKS!)

    • Samigirl says:

      “Avery” is crazy super hot, and that dude you’re talking about on the new USA show is reallllllly hot too. This whole thread has just been a thread of hot dudes. Hot Guy Tuesday. I like it 🙂

      • the original bellaluna says:

        Hot Guy Tuesday is AWESOME! Nothing like a little more heat after a three-day weekend. 😉 How’s baby girl doing?

      • Samigirl says:

        She’s awesome, thanks. 2 pounds up from her birth weight in less than 5 weeks!

    • stellalovejoydiver says:

      cosign on Jesse Williams

  44. Chicagogurl17 says:

    Does Jason Momoa have a younger brother? If not, Jessie Williams gets my vote. Also, Khleo Thomas would be a good choice.

  45. stellalovejoydiver says:

    What about Jake Abel, Kyle Gallner, Aaaron Johnson or Dave Franco as Finnick?
    handsome, talented (and underrated when it comes to Gallner and Abel), in their 20s and you can always get some sprayed tan.
    I can´t stand Taylor Kitsch and Pettyfier is too much of a douche to deserve this kind of career reboot.

    • another nina says:

      Definite yes for Aaron Johnson. But I don’t think he’ll turn out to be a teens’ idol with his wife older than their moms, so that might be a problem. Dave Franco is even shorter than Josh …

  46. Ycnan says:

    He was making a joke…sigh….

  47. Ladybird83 says:

    He’s kind of a twat but Alex Pettyfer.

  48. PatsGirl says:

    NO Justin Hartley? Anyone? C’mon he was born to play this part!

    http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1261997/

  49. Rilla says:

    I think Taylor Kitsch is perfect!! Anyone that doesn’t think so isn’t using their imagination! I do like some other suggestions (like Ryan Kwaten and the guy from Grey’s has a good look, etc) and hate the idea of Armie Hammer.

    Bedhead, can you post a picture of Taylor shirtless? That might helps some people picture him as a swimmer. Or even pics of him in his modeling days or with longer hair? I think he can pull of the surfer/swimmer look because he is SO fit and sporty naturally. It would be a smart career move for him to and I believe he isn’t older than 30 or 31.

    So, I totally agree with your pick!

    • Xas says:

      Rilla, please no!!

      Taylor Kitsch would be a perfect disaster for Finnick. Maybe he’s hot, but he’s not talented and charismatic enough for this role. He was tofu in Battleship and he’s overshadowed by almost everyone in JC -Even when he’s JOHN CARTER-

      At least, Taylor said he’s not interest for this role. PLEASE Taylor: Keep this promise!!

      For these three Armie Hammer is perfect, he’s older, taller and handsome enough. But I wouldn’t mind for Garrett. Both have real acting chops -And don’t use the same argument for Kitsch. FNL made competent actors. Ex.: Minka Kelly-

  50. Turd Fergussen says:

    One only be a Friday Night Lights fan to appreciate the HELL YES that *is* Taylor Kitsch.

    • Rilla says:

      Thank you! The only other people I like for the role (LOOK -wise) are a Tom Welling or Wentworth Miller, which were mentioned by someone else. And Taylor of course. If they go with an unknown a younger version that looks like any of these guys would be awesome!

      I think some of the people that don’t like Kitsch don’t realize that he has a funny side and Finnick uses humor and seduction to cover for actual pain, he is greatly misunderstood and I think Kitsch can do that.

      I feel like I’m the first one to suggest him online – I swear! And it’s spread! I hope he reconsiders (if it’s true that he’s not interested.) He’s great.

  51. Ellie says:

    I know there’s not a snowball’s chance in hell that he could pull off playing a 24-year-old, but I kept picturing Fassbender as Finnick when I was reading the books and couldn’t come up with anyone who was a better fit for the character. Maybe with some good CGI…?

  52. Jules says:

    Garrett Hedlund is my pick for Finnick! He was exactly what popped in my head when I read the book.

  53. JaimelovesFN says:

    If they start shooting in the fall by when do they have to have the role cast? When do they HAVE to make a choice or announcement? Just curious.

  54. JaimelovesFN says:

    Ooh what about Jensen Ackles? Or just an unknown?

  55. Blas Valenzuela says:

    Nice role to try for Pattenson. He should to be discouraged if he wasn’t picked. I am sure they are still many roles for him to play.