The young leads announced for the Hunger Games prequel

• Lionsgate has cast Joseph Zada (20) as Haymitch Abernathy and Whitney Peak (22) as Lenore Dove Baird in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.
• The film, directed by Francis Lawrence, is an adaptation of Suzanne Collins's novel and explores Haymitch's experience as a 16-year-old tribute in the 50th Hunger Games.
• The casting has been well-received by fans, who appreciate the choice of relatively unknown actors.
• While fan castings have suggested actors like Elle Fanning and Ralph Fiennes for other roles, no official announcements have been made beyond the leads.
• The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026.

IN FULL

Hunger Games fans react to ‘perfect’ casting choice for key characters in Sunrise on the Reaping