Lionsgate's adaptation of The Hunger Games has added a crucial cast member with Woody Harrelson signing on to portray Haymitch Abernathy.

In the Suzanne Collins novel, Haymitch Abernathy was the victor of the 50th Hunger Games, two decades before the current games in the novel. Now he's an alcoholic who is the mentor to District 12 tributes Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson).

We reported back in April that John C. Reilly was going to be offered the Haymitch Abernathy role. Although it was believed he would accept the role, it seems a deal could not be worked out. Oddly enough, another story from last month indicated Lionsgate wanted Woody Harrelson to portray Seneca Crane, the head Game Maker of the 74th Hunger Games. However, just last week, Wes Bentley landed the Seneca Crane role.

Lionsgate also announced the casting of the unnamed District 10 tributes, who will be played by Jeremy Marinas and Dakota Hood. Only the District 2 tributes Cato and Clove have yet to be cast, along with the pivotal roles of Cinna, Katniss' designer, and President Snow. You can CLICK HERE to see all of the tributes who have been cast so far.

Gary Ross will direct The Hunger Games from a screenplay by Billy Ray, which is adapted from Suzanne Collins' novel.