It’s been a decade since fans last saw Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark in the iconic Hunger Games franchise, but the actor is more than ready to return to the role that made him a household name. At the recent Dream It Fest 2 in Paris, Hutcherson expressed his eagerness to reprise his role as Peeta, stating, "I would happily play Peeta again." With the release of Suzanne Collins' new novel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the conversation around the franchise has reignited, and Hutcherson is curious about the future of his character.
Hutcherson, who starred in all four films based on Collins' beloved novels, last appeared as Peeta in 2015's The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2. The film concluded with Peeta and Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, settling down together as a married couple with two children. This heartwarming conclusion left fans wondering what life was like for the couple after the tumultuous events of the Games.
During the festival, Hutcherson shared his thoughts on the potential for a sequel, saying, "The story is incredible. The Hunger Games was incredible. I think Peeta's an incredible person to get to bring to life. I'm curious to know what happens between when they have their family and when the story ends, just to understand what happened in the world. But I'm down. If you can talk to Suzanne Collins and tell her to write a book, I'm in. Sign me up." His enthusiasm for the character and the franchise is palpable, and fans are eager to see him back on screen.
While Collins has not indicated any plans to write a direct sequel to The Hunger Games, the new novel, Sunrise on the Reaping, which was released on March 18, 2025, takes place 24 years before the original series. It focuses on Haymitch Abernathy, Katniss and Peeta's future mentor, as he navigates the harrowing 50th annual Hunger Games, known as the Quarter Quell. This event doubles the number of tributes, creating a more dangerous and dramatic scenario for the characters involved.
The official synopsis of Sunrise on the Reaping paints a vivid picture: "As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves." The novel promises to delve into the complexities of Haymitch’s character and the brutal realities of the Games.
There’s also speculation about whether Hutcherson, Lawrence, and Woody Harrelson could make cameo appearances in the upcoming film adaptation of Sunrise on the Reaping. The book concludes with an epilogue featuring an older Haymitch reflecting on his life following the Second Rebellion, mentioning both Katniss and Peeta. If this part of the story makes it into the film, fans could see their beloved characters return, albeit in a different context.
Hutcherson’s connection to the Hunger Games franchise is evident, and he has shared his pride in being part of such a significant cultural phenomenon. "I’m really excited to read it, I mean Suzanne Collins is an amazing author, and I’ve heard that this new book is incredible," he mentioned, humorously admitting that he hadn’t yet read the novel because he is a "very slow reader."
The Hunger Games franchise has remained a beloved series, with millions of fans worldwide. Even after the original series concluded, the anticipation for new stories within the universe continues to grow. Hutcherson’s desire to return as Peeta has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, many of whom have taken to social media to express their hopes for his return.
Social media platforms have been flooded with fan reactions, showcasing the enthusiasm surrounding Hutcherson's potential return. Comments range from humorous memes to heartfelt pleas for a revival of the character. One fan quipped, "Only watching Josh Hutcherson as Peeta again can cure me now," while another joked about the excitement surrounding the franchise's potential comeback.
As the Hunger Games universe expands with new novels and adaptations, the possibility of Hutcherson reprising his role remains a tantalizing prospect. The recent announcement of the film adaptation of Sunrise on the Reaping has only added to the speculation about how the story might unfold and whether Hutcherson will be involved.
In the past, Hutcherson has expressed mixed feelings about saying goodbye to the cast, crew, and character he developed for years. However, he has also indicated that he feels good about moving on to other projects, even as the idea of returning to Panem excites him. "I’d like to see Katniss and Peeta adjust to life post-Hunger Games and what led them to decide to have children," he mused.
While it remains uncertain whether Hutcherson will step back into Peeta's shoes, his enthusiasm and loyalty to the character are evident. Fans will have to wait and see what the future holds for the Hunger Games franchise, but one thing is clear: the story of Katniss and Peeta may have ended in the films, but the hunger for more adventures in Panem continues to thrive.
