Lionsgate has confirmed that Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak are set to star in “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping”. Joseph Zada will portray Haymitch Abernathy, the District 12 tribute who lived through the 50th Hunger Games. Meanwhile, Whitney Peak will bring Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend, to life.
In this fresh prequel, Zada takes over the role previously played by Woody Harrelson. The narrative centers around a younger iteration of the much-loved character amidst the lethal Second Quarter Quell. The setting is 24 years prior to Katniss Everdeen’s arena debut, commencing with the reaping that significantly impacts Haymitch’s life.
Franchise Veterans Back on Board
In the role once again for the upcoming Hunger Games movies is director Francis Lawrence. The script was penned by Billy Ray, while Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson take on producing duties through Color Force. Lionsgate’s Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien are overseeing the project.
Casting Process Was Extensive
Lionsgate stated that the casting process was fierce, drawing in numerous actors from around the globe. Erin Westerman, Co-President of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed, “Jo and Whitney embody the legacy beautifully, showing remarkable emotion, depth, and passion.” Moreover, it’s exciting to see Haymitch’s origin story unfold, as fans have long awaited this moment in the franchise.
In simpler terms, Jacobson stated that Zada was “extremely well-prepared and won everyone’s affection,” while Peak left us “speechless as Lenore Dove.” She characterized their on-screen connection as an “enchanting instance of perfect casting.
About the Story
According to Suzanne Collins’ recently published novel, Sunrise on the Reaping takes us back to the world of Panem, specifically 24 years prior to the events in The Hunger Games. The story unfolds on the day of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, as the reaping ceremony is about to take place.
The narrative revolves around Haymitch, a sharp and resilient 16-year-old resident of District 12, who finds himself unwittingly selected for this year’s Hunger Games, where an ominous twist awaits: instead of the usual 24 contestants, 48 children will be thrust into the arena to fight for their survival.
Background on the Cast
I’m currently gracing the screen in the series “Invisible Boys” on Stan Australia, and I’ve got some exciting projects coming up. You can catch me in “We Were Liars” on Prime Video, and also in “East of Eden” over on Netflix.
Whitney Peak has gained recognition for her roles in the TV series “Gossip Girl” on Max and the upcoming film “Hocus Pocus 2”. Next, she’s set to feature in the movies titled “Shiver” and “4 Kids Walk into a Bank”.
Release info
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will be released in theaters on November 20, 2026.
The prequel joins a franchise that has already grossed over $3.3 billion globally.
Deadline first reported on the casting.
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2025-04-24 19:01