At the beginning of the week, we brought you the news that that Oscar nominated actress Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone) had emerged as the front-runner for the coveted lead role of Katniss Everdeen in the Gary Ross (Pleasantville) directed big-screen adaptation of the first novel in Suzanne Collins‘ best selling trilogy, The Hunger Games.

Now, The Wrap confirms that Jennifer Lawrence has officially signed on to portray Katniss Everdeen in the Lionsgate adaptation of The Hunger Games. The actress’ deal reportedly includes possible sequels, as the studio plans to adapt Suzanne Collins‘ entire trilogy, which would include The Hunger Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay.

The Hunger Games is slated to hit theaters on March 23rd, 2012.