Starring: Joseph Zada as Young Haymitch Abernathy, Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird
Director: Francis Lawrence
Franchise: The Hunger Games

The countdown has officially begun for “Sunrise on the Reaping”, the highly anticipated prequel to the globally beloved Hunger Games franchise. Set to premiere on November 20, 2026, this sixth installment transports fans back to the dangerous and captivating world of Panem, this time through the eyes of a young Haymitch Abernathy, famously portrayed by Woody Harrelson in the original series.

What Is “Sunrise on the Reaping” About?

Based on Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel of the same name, “Sunrise on the Reaping” takes place 24 years before the events of the first Hunger Games movie in 2008. The story centers on the 50th annual Hunger Games, also called the second Quarter Quell, where the rules change and twice the number of tributes are selected — two boys and two girls from each district — making these the deadliest games in Panem’s history.

From District 12, young Haymitch Abernathy is thrown into this deadly competition alongside Maysilee Donner, a fellow tribute and friend, and forms a bond with Lenore Dove Baird, his love interest. Fans can expect an intense exploration of Haymitch’s character, his survival instincts, and the early experiences that shape the mentor figure we see guiding Katniss Everdeen decades later.

Suzanne Collins has revealed that the story also delves into themes of propaganda, power, and control, inspired by philosopher David Hume’s ideas on governance and submission. The narrative challenges readers and viewers to question what is “real or not real” in a society ruled by fear and spectacle.

Cast of Sunrise on the Reaping

In April 2025, Lionsgate announced the main cast:

• Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy
• Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird
• McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner

Additional confirmed cast members include:

• Maya Hawke as Wiress
• Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow
• Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
• Glenn Close as Drusilla
• Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman

Lionsgate’s co-president Erin Westerman praised the casting, stating, “The Hunger Games franchise has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and Jo and Whitney carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire.”

Director and Crew

Returning to the director’s chair is Francis Lawrence, who previously directed Catching Fire, Mockingjay Part 1 & 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Lawrence expressed that casting a young Haymitch was a delicate process, emphasizing that it wasn’t about impersonating Woody Harrelson, but capturing the essence of his character — humor, intelligence, quirk, and the darkness that gives him an edge.

Screenwriter Billy Ray, who penned the original Hunger Games film in 2012, is also back for this adaptation, ensuring continuity and authenticity in storytelling.

Trailer and First Look

The first official trailer for “Sunrise on the Reaping” was released on November 20, 2025, offering fans a glimpse into the 50th Hunger Games. The two-minute teaser features Drusilla, Effie’s Capitol predecessor, welcoming audiences to the Reaping and showcasing the beautiful yet deadly landscapes of District 12. The trailer emphasizes the doubled stakes of the Quarter Quell and the harrowing challenges the tributes will face.

Release Date

Mark your calendars: “Sunrise on the Reaping” hits theaters on November 20, 2026. The film promises to be a thrilling expansion of the Hunger Games universe, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences eager to explore Panem’s dark history.

Where to Watch the Hunger Games Movies

For those looking to catch up or watch the franchise in chronological order:

1. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes – Roku
2. The Hunger Games – HBO Max (rent or buy)
3. Catching Fire – HBO Max (rent or buy)
4. Mockingjay Part 1 – HBO Max (rent or buy)
5. Mockingjay Part 2 – HBO Max (rent or buy)

Streaming these films before the prequel’s release will enrich your understanding of Haymitch’s journey and the origins of Panem’s brutal games.