Before Jennifer Lawrence became Katniss Everdeen — the bow-wielding heroine of The Hunger Games — another rising star was in the running: Hailee Steinfeld.
In a resurfaced interview that’s making the rounds online again, Steinfeld opened up about auditioning for the iconic role and ultimately losing out to Lawrence. At the time, Steinfeld was fresh off her Oscar-nominated performance in True Grit and seen by many as a strong contender for the part.
“I remember being really young and just so excited about the opportunity,” Steinfeld said. “I loved the books and the idea of playing Katniss was just… wild. I gave it my all.”
Though she didn’t land the role, Steinfeld has always spoken graciously about the experience — and about Lawrence’s performance. “Jennifer was phenomenal. I can’t imagine anyone else playing Katniss now,” she added.
Fans have long speculated what the Hunger Games franchise might’ve looked like with Steinfeld at the center. Some even argue her version of Katniss could have brought a darker, more introspective edge. But others agree that Lawrence was born for the role — and her portrayal certainly helped launch her into global superstardom.
As for Steinfeld, missing out on Panem didn’t stop her rise. From starring in Pitch Perfect to voicing Gwen Stacy in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and leading the hit series Dickinson, she’s carved her own path — and shows no signs of slowing down.
Sometimes, the roles we lose are just as important as the ones we land.
