Before Josh Hutcherson won the role of Peeta Mellark in The Hunger Games film series, a handful of other actors gave him a run for his money. The movie franchise consisted of four installments based on the popular YA book series by Suzanne Collins. The Hunger Games universe recently expanded with the release of the prequel title, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. The book is already being developed into a feature film at Lionsgate but Hutcherson most likely won't be involved since the story takes place decades prior to the original trilogy.
Peeta was the kind-natured young man who resided in District 12. He worked in his family's bakery before his life was upended when he was chosen as the male tribute for the 74th Hunger Games. As a participant, he became closer to District 12's female tribute and central character, Katniss Everdeen. Not only did he help keep her alive during the deadly competition but he also fell in love with her. Unlike Gale Hawthorne, another love interest for Katniss, Peeta wore his heart on his sleeve. He unwittingly accompanied Katniss in the Quarter Quell before he was captured and brainwashed by the Capitol. Peeta eventually recovered from the hijacking of his mind following the big rebellion. He and Katniss would go on to start a family but the trauma stayed with him.
Before The Hunger Games debuted in 2012, Hutcherson was best known for roles in Zathura: A Space Adventure, Bridge to Terabithia, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and The Kids Are All Right. When Hunger Games became the focus of a film adaptation, the roles were highly sought after. Lionsgate gained a lot of attention from young actors and they had the pick of the litter when it came to up-and-coming stars. Among the names that were considered for Peeta included Hunter Parrish, Lucas Till, and Evan Peters. Coincidentally enough, Till and Peters became co-stars of Jennifer Lawrence while working on the X-Men franchise but they missed the chance at a gig in the Hunger Games series.
Two actors who were interested in the role of Peeta ended up getting cast in other parts. Liam Hemsworth was first drawn to Peeta before he set his sights on the role of Gale. He ended up acquiring the gig, appearing in all four movie installments. Alexander Ludwig made it down to the final group of candidates considered for Peeta. He even screen-tested alongside Lawrence. Though he didn't get the part of Peeta, Ludwig caught the attention of director Gary Ross and was later cast as Cato, the brutal male tribute from District 2.
Based on the immense fan following that surrounded the Hunger Games franchise and the cast, Lionsgate was surely elated with their decision to cast Hutcherson. The actor rose to super-stardom alongside Lawrence and Hemsworth as they served as the primary trio at the center of the story. It was a life and career-changing opportunity. The role of Peeta is now behind Hutcherson but as the franchise's popularity lives on, so does the actor's connection to the series.