Get ready, tributes! Lionsgate has confirmed the primary casting for their eagerly awaited prequel film titled “The Hunger Games: Dawn at the Reaping“. The relatively new actor Joseph Zada has secured the significant role of a young Haymitch Abernathy, who later becomes the tough-skinned mentor to Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in the main series. Sharing the screen with him as Haymitch’s girlfriend is Whitney Peak. Recognized by many for her roles in the reboot of Gossip Girl and Disney+’s upcoming movie, “Hocus Pocus 2“, Peak is set to appear alongside Zada. The Australian actor, Zada, is on the brink of a remarkable year with appearances in the upcoming Prime Video series “We Were Liars” and Netflix’s “East of Eden“.
In a recent announcement, Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed enthusiasm about Jo and Whitney continuing the legacy of talented young actors from “The Hunger Games” franchise. She praised their performances as having immense heart, depth, and passion. After reviewing numerous skilled performers worldwide, these two stood out not just for their talent but also for the authentic emotions they brought to these iconic roles. The character Haymitch is well-loved by fans, and his backstory, one of the most anticipated in the franchise, will be a significant part of the storyline. The relationship between Haymitch and Lenore Dove plays a crucial role in the emotional history of Panem. Fans are eagerly awaiting the experience of the story that shaped one of the series’ most intriguing characters.
Haymitch Abernathy.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026.
— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) April 23, 2025
Producer Nina Jacobson detailed the thorough and tiring process that Deb Zane and Dylan Jury undertook to find a talented young actor capable of portraying young Haymitch. As explained by Jacobson, Jo impressed with their extensive preparation and won our hearts. Later, Whitney left us in awe as Lenore Dove. When these two were paired together, it was one of those special instances when you realize that your search has led you to the right place. The choice of Zada, who is less well-known compared to some fan favorites, indicates that Lionsgate is maintaining the franchise’s practice of showcasing promising newcomers for key roles.
Everything We Know About The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Dawn in the Reaping – The Hunger Games
This gripping film takes us once again into the grim world of Panem, focusing on the 50th edition of the Hunger Games, or ominously referred to as the Second Quarter Quell. Set 24 years prior to Katniss Everdeen’s volunteer tribute stint and 40 years after the events in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes”, it follows the harrowing journey of a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy, compelled to compete.
In this Quarter Quell, the Capitol introduces a chilling twist: each district must send double the usual number of tributes. So instead of facing off against 23 other competitors, our protagonist enters an arena with 47 adversaries. The film is based on Suzanne Collins’ novel bearing the same name, which recounts Haymitch’s harrowing experiences in this grueling competition.
Exploring the sunrise over the Reaping event, this prequel is set to unravel the emotional strain and hardships endured by the Games participants, shedding light on how our resilient but battle-worn protagonist transformed into the weary mentor viewers came to know in the Hunger Games films. The storyline further introduces significant characters from District 12’s history, such as Maysilee Donner, the first owner of the Mockingjay emblem eventually donned by Katniss. Central themes anticipated in this work include propaganda, power manipulation, the repercussions of war, and the essence of rebellion under oppressive rule.
Maintaining consistency within the established “Hunger Games” film universe, Francis Lawrence, who directed every movie since “Catching Fire,” is once again at the helm for “Sunrise on the Reaping.” The script is written by Billy Ray, who previously worked on the screenplay for the initial “Hunger Games” film. Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson of Color Force, producers for all previous installments, are also back, along with executive producer Cameron MacConomy. This returning creative team suggests a dedication to preserving the visual and thematic style that has been characteristic of the successful franchise, which has already earned over $3.3 billion globally.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled to hit theaters on November 20, 2026.
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2025-04-24 11:40