Earlier this month, we brought you a report about Kaya Scodelario (Clash of the Titans), Malese Jow (The Social Network), both Lyndsy Fonseca and Chloe Moretz from the Matthew Vaughn directed Kick-Ass and Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit) all being in contention for the 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, Deadline reports that Oscar nominated actress Jennifer Lawrence (Winter’s Bone), who wasn’t included in the prior list of contenders, has emerged as the front-runner for the coveted lead role, and should begin talks this week. Lawrence will be seen in theaters this summer, playing Raven Darkholme / Mystique in the Matthew Vaughn directed X-Men: First Class.

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