Hunger Games fans are buzzing with excitement over the recent casting announcement for the highly anticipated prequel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. After weeks of speculation and fan-casting, Lionsgate has confirmed the lead roles in the film, which is set to delve into the origin story of Haymitch Abernathy.
Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak Join the Sunrise on the Reaping Cast
Joseph Zada, 20, will take on the role of Haymitch Abernathy, the District 12 tribute in the Second Quarter Quell, while 22-year-old Whitney Peak will portray his love interest, Lenore Dove Baird. The prequel is set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen volunteers for her sister in the 74th Hunger Games, and 40 years after the events of The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, which explores the rise of Coriolanus Snow.
The Hunger Games Prequel: Exploring Haymitch Abernathy’s Past
In Sunrise on the Reaping, fans will see Haymitch as a 16-year-old tribute in the 50th Hunger Games. Haymitch’s character was first introduced in The Hunger Games series as a bitter, drunk mentor to Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, played by Woody Harrelson in the films. His love interest, Lenore Dove Baird, comes from a nomadic group known as the Covey, and their relationship is pivotal to the emotional backdrop of Panem.
Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erin Westerman expressed excitement about the casting, stating, “Jo and Whitney carry the legacy of the Hunger Games franchise forward with incredible talent and emotional depth.” She emphasized that their performances brought “emotional truth” to these iconic roles, with Haymitch’s origin story being one of the most eagerly awaited in the franchise.
Director Francis Lawrence Returns for the Prequel
Sunrise on the Reaping will be directed by Francis Lawrence, who directed all Hunger Games films except the first. The screenplay will be penned by Billy Ray. Fans can expect a fresh yet familiar cinematic experience, as the story will uncover the emotional journey of one of the series’ most beloved characters, Haymitch.
Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak’s Upcoming Projects
Joseph Zada is currently starring in the Stan Australia Original Series Invisible Boys, based on the bestselling novel by Holden Sheppard, and will appear in Prime Video’s We Were Liars in June 2025. Whitney Peak is known for her role as Zoya Lott in the Gossip Girl reboot and has also appeared in Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. She will soon be seen in Shiver and 4 Kids Walk into a Bank alongside Liam Neeson and Teresa Palmer.
Fan Reactions and Casting Speculations
Fans have expressed overwhelming positivity about the casting choices, particularly the decision to cast rising stars rather than established actors. On social media, fans have speculated about other potential castings, including Elle Fanning for young Effie Trinket, Ralph Fiennes for President Snow, and Kieran Culkin for the flamboyant Games commentator, originally played by Stanley Tucci.
While no further casting announcements have been made yet, the excitement surrounding Sunrise on the Reaping continues to build, especially with the film’s official release date set for November 20, 2026.
