The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, directed by veteran filmmaker Francis Lawrence, is set for a much-anticipated release next year. This marks the franchise’s return to cinemas since The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes.
The new installment takes viewers back in time, long before Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, became a tribute. The prequel explores the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, originally portrayed by Woody Harrelson, and the events of the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Second Quarter Quell.
“Haymitch has always been a fan favorite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise,” stated Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series.”
Starring Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch, the prequel features a mix of new talent and familiar faces from Panem. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson will return as Katniss and Peeta.
Here’s a look at the cast for this eagerly awaited return to the arena.
Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen
Though her appearance is brief, it’s a significant moment for the original heroine. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the actress reprises her role in a “flash-forward scene,” likely referring to the book’s epilogue where Haymitch connects with Katniss and Peeta.
Josh Hutcherson
According to THR, Josh Hutcherson reprises his role as Peeta in the “flash-forward scene.” The I Love LA actor kept details of his return under wraps while promoting other projects.
Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy
Zada, a 20-year-old Australian actor, portrays young Haymitch Abernathy, the sole male tribute from District 12 in the 50th Hunger Games. Zada has appeared in Australian productions like Invisible Boys and Total Control. He will also feature in upcoming series We Were Liars and East of Eden alongside Florence Pugh.
Finding a younger version of such a well-known character was challenging. In a March 2025 interview with Variety, producer Nina Jacobson discussed the difficulty of casting someone who captures Haymitch’s essence without imitating Harrelson’s portrayal.
“Nobody can be Woody Harrelson but Woody Harrelson,” she remarked. “You want someone who credibly feels like a young version of this character, before the trauma and grief from the Games.”
Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird
Whitney Peak, 22, takes on the role of Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend and a member of the Covey, a musical group from District 12. Peak is known for her roles in the Gossip Girl reboot and Hocus Pocus 2.
Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner
Mckenna Grace plays Maysilee Donner, another tribute from District 12 and a temporary ally of Haymitch. At just 19, Grace is already a seasoned actor with roles in Ghostbusters: Afterlife, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Young Sheldon.
Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee
Jesse Plemons portrays Plutarch Heavensbee, a rising Capitol figure pivotal to Panem’s future. The 37-year-old actor is acclaimed for his roles in The Power of the Dog, Breaking Bad, and Fargo.
“Jesse is one of the most talented actors of his generation,” stated Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, as reported by Deadline. “His portrayal of Plutarch will honor the character fans know while making it uniquely his own.”
Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
Elle Fanning will play a younger version of Effie Trinket, the iconic character known for the phrase, “May the Odds Be Ever in Your Favor.” Fanning has appeared in projects like A Complete Unknown, The Girl From Plainville, and Maleficent.
Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman
Originally portrayed by Stanley Tucci, Caesar Flickerman will now be portrayed by Kieran Culkin, showing the character 24 years younger. Known for his charisma, Caesar is the host who welcomes tributes before they compete. Culkin has recently gained recognition for his role in Succession and A Real Pain, for which he won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
Billy Porter as Lucretius “Lucky” Flickerman
Before Caesar, there was Lucretius “Lucky” Flickerman, the original Capitol host of the Hunger Games. In Sunrise on the Reaping, Lucky introduces audiences to the Games for the first time. Billy Porter will portray Lucky Flickerman, known for his commanding presence and Emmy-winning role in Pose.
Glenn Close as Casca Highbottom
Casca Highbottom, credited with creating the Hunger Games, is portrayed by Glenn Close as the Games reach their 50th anniversary. Close, a seven-time Oscar nominee, is celebrated for her roles in Fatal Attraction, The Wife, and Hillbilly Elegy.
