Hunger Games bosses 'didn't want Twilight stars'

10 February 2012Kellan Lutz was reportedly turned down from The Hunger Games as producers didn't want "Twilight stars".

The actor is famed for playing vampire Emmett Cullen in the hugely popular fantasy franchise, which also stars Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner.

Kellan was allegedly interested in playing the role of Gale Hawthorne in the highly-anticipated The Hunger Games, but producers turned him down after deciding they didn't want any Twilight actors to appear.

"Producers told him they didn't want anyone from Twilight," a source told US Weekly.

The role eventually went to Liam Hemsworth. The 22-year-old emerging actor will star alongside Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, who play Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark respectively.

However, Lionsgate Entertainment - who acquired distribution rights for The Hunger Games - insist that Kellan didn't show any interest in the role.

"Kellan didn't audition, but we think he's talented," a spokesperson revealed.

Kellan can next be seen in Syrup alongside Amber Heard, Brittany Snow and Kirstie Alley.

The Hunger Games - which is based on the bestselling novel by Suzanne Collins - is released next month. © Cover Media