The world of The Hunger Games is officially expanding again—and this time, we’re diving into the backstory of one of the franchise’s most iconic characters: Haymitch Abernathy. Lionsgate has officially announced the first two leads for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. Joseph Zada will play Haymitch, the District 12 tribute who survives the 50th Hunger Games, while Whitney Peak takes on the role of his girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird. Zada steps into the shoes originally filled by Woody Harrelson, who portrayed Haymitch in the previous films.
This new prequel focuses on a younger version of the fan-favorite character during the deadly Second Quarter Quell, set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen enters the arena. The story begins with the reaping that changes Haymitch’s life forever. On April 24, 2025, Lionsgate confirmed the casting of Zada and Peak, with Mckenna Grace also announced as Maysilee Donner.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. This film marks the sixth installment in the franchise, which has already grossed over $3.3 billion globally. The anticipation surrounding this film is palpable, especially as it dives into the backstory of Haymitch, a character whose games were previously mentioned in Catching Fire, igniting fans' curiosity about what really happened in that arena.
Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed the previous Hunger Games films, returns to direct the prequel. The screenplay is penned by Billy Ray, who has previously written for the franchise. Producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson are also back on board, ensuring that the film maintains the high standards set by its predecessors. Lionsgate executives Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien will oversee the project.
The casting process for this film was extensive, with hundreds of actors auditioning worldwide. Erin Westerman, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President, expressed her excitement about the casting, stating, "Jo and Whitney carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire." She continued, "Haymitch has always been a fan favorite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise." Westerman praised Zada's preparation and Peak's audition, describing their chemistry as a “magical casting moment.”
In the story, Haymitch, a clever and resourceful 16-year-old from District 12, is unexpectedly chosen for this edition of the games, which will feature a deadly twist: twice the number of tributes, with 48 children sent into the arena to battle for their lives. This adds an intense layer of stakes to the story, as viewers will witness the brutal competition unfold.
Joseph Zada is relatively new to the scene, currently starring in Invisible Boys for Stan Australia and with upcoming roles in We Were Liars on Prime Video and East of Eden for Netflix. Whitney Peak is known for her roles in Gossip Girl on Max and Hocus Pocus 2. She will also appear in Shiver and 4 Kids Walk Into a Bank, showcasing her growing talent in the industry.
As fans eagerly await the film's release, there is a sense of nostalgia and excitement surrounding the franchise. The Hunger Games series has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and the addition of Zada and Peak only heightens the anticipation for what is set to come.
Reflecting on Haymitch's character, Erin Westerman noted, "His relationship with Lenore Dove is deeply woven into the emotional history of Panem. We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series." This insight hints at the emotional depth the film is set to explore, providing a rich backstory that fans have been craving.
The Hunger Games franchise has captivated audiences since the release of the first film in 2012, and with each new installment, the stakes seem to rise higher. The upcoming prequel promises to delve deeper into the lore of Panem, exploring themes of survival, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of the games.
As the release date approaches, the buzz surrounding The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping continues to grow. With a talented cast and a seasoned director at the helm, fans are hopeful that this prequel will live up to the legacy of its predecessors. The film not only aims to entertain but also to provide a poignant look at the origins of one of the series' most beloved characters, Haymitch Abernathy.
In the meantime, fans can revisit the original films and the recent The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, which was released in 2023, to prepare for the emotional journey that lies ahead in Sunrise on the Reaping. As the franchise expands, it remains to be seen how the story will unfold and what new revelations will come to light about the world of Panem and its characters.
With a release set for November 2026, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year, promising to deliver both action and emotional depth as it explores the early years of Haymitch Abernathy and the brutal realities of the Hunger Games.
