Let's Cast The Hunger Games! Who Should Play Haymitch?

We think Robert Downey Jr. should get the role

By Ted Casablanca Mar 24, 2011 2:36 PMTags
Brad Pitt, Gerard Butler, Robert Downey Jr., Hugh LaurieInfPhoto.com; AP Photo/Stephen Chernin; Giulio Marcocchi/Sipa Press; JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty Images

We've already got Jennifer Lawrence cast as Katniss Everdeen, and we're waiting for the announcement on who gets the role of Peeta Mellark, so let's brainstorm who should play Haymitch Abernathy, the only living Hunger Games winner of District 12.

All of you seem totally into debating who should land the unintentionally funny, and potentially scene-stealing role in today's Bitch-Back, so we've narrowed it down to four top candidates.

Haymitch is Katniss and Peeta's mentor. Since he's the only winner in District 12's history, it's his duty to train the tributes.

He is a paunchy, middle-aged man with a serious drinking problem. He's harsh, sarcastic and difficult to deal with, which is why the character that plays him needs to do this in a lovable way.

Although Haymitch doesn't say it, you know he cares for Katniss and Peeta.

Our top choice is Robert Downey Jr. He would totally put on a little weight for the role, and we think he's the best actor to balance this seemingly callous personality in a funny way.

We definitely think a big name should play this character. Even though it's a supporting role, think of the killer names that had small but important parts in the Harry Potter franchise?

Next, we think Gerard Butler could fit the mold. He's doesn't have the 300 body to lose anymore, but he too would get the quirky nature of Haymitch.

Brad Pitt—though we doubt he would do it—is another good option.

And finally, fan favorite Hugh Laurie. Somehow we are not down with this. He would be totally fab to capture the harsh personality, but we think Haymitch needs to seem personable in the end. Not sure if the House star is the guy to bring out the dynamic personality of this character.

Poll

The Hunger Games Casting: Haymitch Abernathy

Which star do you think would be good in the role?
Robert Downey Jr.
40.7%
Gerard Butler
15.9%
Brad Pitt
4.1%
Hugh Laurie
30.4%
Other! Drop a name in the comments.
8.8%