Overview

• Joseph Zada will portray young Haymitch Abernathy, with Whitney Peak cast as Lenore Dove Baird, and McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner in the prequel film.
• The story, based on Suzanne Collins' bestselling novel, takes place during the 50th Hunger Games, 24 years before Katniss Everdeen's journey in the original series.
• Francis Lawrence returns to direct, with Billy Ray adapting the screenplay and producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson continuing their involvement with the franchise.
• The casting followed an extensive global search, with Lionsgate highlighting the emotional depth and chemistry of Zada and Peak in their roles.
• Sunrise on the Reaping is set for a theatrical release on November 20, 2026, with production scheduled to begin later in 2025.