The Hunger Games franchise has taken the world by storm, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment. The upcoming prequel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise at the Reaping, is set to release on November 20, 2026. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film will dive into the backstory of the infamous 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. It will explore the rise of Haymitch Abernathy, a young tribute from District 12, played by a new generation of talented actors.
Key Cast Members
- Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy
Taking on the role of a young Haymitch Abernathy is Australian actor Joseph Zada. Haymitch, previously portrayed by Woody Harrelson in the original series, was a vital character who played a key role in Katniss Everdeen’s journey. Zada, known for his performances in We Were Liars and Invisible Boys, is set to bring a fresh take on this complex and pivotal character. - Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird
Lenore Dove Baird is a new character introduced in the prequel, and Whitney Peak will be bringing her to life. Known for her roles in Gossip Girl and Hocus Pocus 2, Peak will embody Lenore, who plays an important role in Haymitch’s life. - Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner
Mckenna Grace, a young talent known for her work in Captain Marvel and Ghostbusters: Afterlife, will portray Maysilee Donner. A tribute from District 12, Maysilee forms a key part of the storyline, and Grace’s performance will be one to watch as she steps into the shoes of this character. - Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee
Jesse Plemons, acclaimed for his work in Breaking Bad and The Irishman, will play Plutarch Heavensbee, who goes on to become the Head Gamemaker in the original Hunger Games films. His portrayal promises to add depth to the role, which becomes more important as the story unfolds. - Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow
The infamous President Snow, previously portrayed by Donald Sutherland and Tom Blyth, will now be portrayed by Ralph Fiennes in his younger years. Fiennes, known for his iconic performances in Schindler’s List and Harry Potter, will offer a darker perspective on the rise of Snow and his complex character. - Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
Effie Trinket, the eccentric and fashionable Capitol escort, will be played by Elle Fanning, famous for her roles in Maleficent and The Neon Demon. Fanning’s portrayal will give fans a deeper look at Effie before she becomes the familiar character we see in the later films. - Maya Hawke as Wiress
Maya Hawke, known for her breakout role in Stranger Things, will portray Wiress, a tribute from District 3. Wiress’s quirky and unpredictable nature makes her a fascinating character, and Hawke’s ability to balance humor and vulnerability will surely shine. - Lili Taylor as Mags Flanagan
Lili Taylor will step into the role of Mags, a tribute from District 4. Taylor, who is best known for her roles in The Conjuring and Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, will bring gravitas to the character of Mags, who is known for her wisdom and experience. - Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier
Kelvin Harrison Jr. will portray Beetee, the technical genius from District 3. Harrison, recognized for his roles in The Trial of the Chicago 7 and Luce, is sure to bring depth and intensity to the role of Beetee, who plays a significant part in the Quarter Quell. - Ben Wang as Wyatt Callow
Ben Wang, a rising star, will play Wyatt Callow, another tribute from District 12. Wang, known for his work in American Born Chinese, will add a youthful energy to the character, which promises to give the story a new dynamic.
Behind the Scenes
Francis Lawrence, the director of Catching Fire, Mockingjay Part 1, and Mockingjay Part 2, returns to helm the prequel. Lawrence has been a key figure in shaping the Hunger Games franchise, and fans are excited to see his vision continue with Sunrise at the Reaping. The screenplay will be written by Billy Ray, who worked on the original Hunger Games film, ensuring that the essence of the series is maintained.
With principal photography set to begin in July 2025, The Hunger Games: Sunrise at the Reaping is already generating immense buzz. Fans are excited to learn more about the history of Panem and witness the early days of characters like Snow and Haymitch, long before they became the iconic figures we know today.
Scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, this prequel promises to add new layers to the Hunger Games universe, offering fans a glimpse into the origin of the 50th Hunger Games and the Second Quarter Quell. The introduction of new characters, along with a star-studded cast, will keep fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the movie’s premiere.
As the hype for the prequel builds, fans can look forward to an exciting and emotional journey into the origins of the Hunger Games saga. From complex characters to intense drama, Sunrise at the Reaping is set to be another thrilling chapter in the world of Panem.