Jesse Plemons is stepping into the shoes of the late Philip Seymour Hoffman as he takes on the role of Plutarch Heavensbee in Lionsgate’s upcoming film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. This highly anticipated adaptation of Suzanne Collins' latest novel, released on March 18, 2025, marks a significant return to the world of Panem, set 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games series.
Plutarch, a pivotal character who eventually becomes the Head Gamemaker and a leader of the rebellion, was previously portrayed by Hoffman in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and both parts of Mockingjay. Hoffman’s performances in these films were his final roles before he passed away in 2014, leaving a notable legacy in the franchise. Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed the previous installments, opted not to use CGI to replicate Hoffman’s presence, instead choosing to rewrite scenes to honor the actor’s memory.
“He was one of the greatest actors, I think, of all time, and I just think to try to fake a Philip Seymour Hoffman performance would have been catastrophic,” Lawrence remarked in a previous interview. “I just think this was the best way to be able to get around such a horrible thing.”
Plemons, an Oscar nominee for his role in The Power of the Dog, joins a talented cast that includes Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy, Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, and Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner. The film will open with a young Plutarch in District 12, capturing the reaping of tributes in what is known as the 50th Hunger Games, or the Second Quarter Quell.
“Jesse is one of the most talented actors of his generation, with a proven record of picking his roles selectively,” said Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “We are honored that he has chosen to bring his own take to one of the most fascinating figures in Panem, and feel that his previous collaboration with Philip Seymour Hoffman makes it all the more special. His Plutarch will be both a tribute to the character fans have already come to know and a portrayal he makes his own. We can’t wait for audiences to see it.”
Producer Nina Jacobson expressed her enthusiasm for Plemons’ casting, stating, “Jesse has been one of my favorite actors since I first saw him in Friday Night Lights. We knew from the start that only an actor’s actor could play a young version of Plutarch. Jesse was the dream from the start and we couldn’t be prouder to have him join the Hunger Games family.”
The novel Sunrise on the Reaping has already made waves, selling 1.5 million copies in its first week across the U.S., UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The 1.2 million copies sold in the U.S. alone are twice the first-week sales of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and three times those of Mockingjay.
As the film gears up for production, set to begin in July 2025, anticipation continues to build. The screenplay will be adapted by Billy Ray, who co-wrote the original Hunger Games films. With the franchise having garnered over $3.3 billion at the box office across its five films, Lionsgate is keen to maintain the momentum.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” will explore the complex world of Panem, delving deeper into the characters that fans have come to love while introducing new ones. The film is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026, promising to capture the imagination of audiences once again.
Plemons, who has also appeared in acclaimed works such as Breaking Bad, Fargo, and the upcoming projects Bugonia and an untitled film from director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the character of Plutarch. His casting has been met with excitement from fans and industry insiders alike, highlighting the blend of legacy and new interpretation that the film aims to achieve.
As the world of The Hunger Games expands, Plemons’ role as Plutarch Heavensbee will undoubtedly play a crucial part in the narrative, exploring themes of power, rebellion, and sacrifice that resonate throughout the series. With a strong cast and a dedicated creative team, Sunrise on the Reaping is poised to be a significant addition to the beloved franchise.
As audiences await the film's release, the excitement surrounding this new chapter in the Hunger Games saga continues to grow, promising a thrilling exploration of the events that shaped the dystopian world of Panem.
