'Snow White And The Huntsman' Star Sam Claflin Confirmed To Play Finnick Odair In 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire'

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by Oliver Lyttelton
August 22, 2012 12:30 PM
5 Comments

It's been one of the most sought-after roles in recent Hollywood casting history, one that names like Armie Hammer, Taylor Kitsch, Garret Hedlund and even Robert Pattinson were (mostly erroneously) linked to. And after several months, it's finally been filled, with Lionsgate announcing via a press release that Sam Claflin, the 26-year-old British actor who's so far featured in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" and "Snow White and the Huntsman," has officially signed on to play Finnick Odair in hotly anticipated sequel "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire."

The role, a fan favorite, is a former champion of the Hunger Games who *spoiler* is forced to compete alongside Katniss and Peeta in a 'Quarter Quell' -- an occasional sort of 'greatest hits' battle pitting past champions against each other. *end spoiler* Claflin's been linked to the role for a little while now, and seems to have mostly won over the approval of fans. We have to say, having seen some of Claflin's drama school performances years back, he's rather better than some of the material he's been given so far, so having a slightly meatier role than 'insipid blockbuster love interest' could be a big deal for him.

Claflin joins the original cast, plus fellow new additions Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jena Malone, Tony Shalhoub, Amanda Plummer, and about a dozen more that no one's ever heard of. Francis Lawrence is directing, and the film will hit theaters on November 15th, 2013. What do you think of the casting? Are you happy with Claflin, or was there someone else you'd rather have seen in the role? Let us know below.

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More: Sam Claflin, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

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Ugh | August 22, 2012 2:53 PMReply

I hope he can surprise. I've only seen him in 'Pirates 4' and he was awful in that but I won't hold it against him since EVERYONE was awful & one-note in that flick.

Still, can't see 'Catching Fire' being anywhere as good as 'The Hunger Games' with Francis Lawrence streamlining the film.
Ray H | August 22, 2012 1:13 PMReply

Hopefully the part is meaty and gives this actor the opportunity to show what he can do. I have no idea how talented he may be, but his performances in Pirates 4 and Snow White have to be the blandest of any young actor in recent memory. I'd hate to write off any young actor simply because they were never given the opportunity to showcase their talent.
Kels | August 22, 2012 12:56 PMReply

Bland as white milk
Sandra | August 22, 2012 12:42 PMReply

RuPaul was robber
Sandra | August 22, 2012 12:42 PM

*robbed