Today, Lionsgate officially announced that actors Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak have been cast in the lead roles for The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping. Zada is set to play the main character, young Haymitch Abernathy (originally played by Woody Harrelson), and Peak is set to play his girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird.
“The Hunger Games franchise has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and Joe and Whitney carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire. After auditioning hundreds of gifted performers from around the world, these two stood out — not just for their talent, but for the emotional truth they brought to these iconic roles.
Haymitch has always been a fan favorite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise. 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.”- Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erin Westerman.
They will both hail from District 12 during the 50th Hunger Games. Charlie Plummer was eyed for the lead role, but passed. Several other roles have been rumored but not yet announced, including Ralph Fiennes as President Snow, Elle Fanning as young Effie Trinket, Kieran Culkin as young Caesar Flickerman, and Jesse Plemons as young Plutarch Heavensbee. Production begins this July in Germany under the direction of Francis Lawrence.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters on November 20th, 2026
Haymitch Abernathy.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/0HgUhRcPF7
— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) April 23, 2025
