Fans of The Hunger Games franchise are in for a treat as the highly anticipated prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, announces its first cast members. The film is adapted from Suzanne Collins’ newly released novel of the same name, which takes fans back to the early days of Panem.

Set more than 20 years before the events of the original Hunger Games trilogy, Sunrise on the Reaping centers on a young Haymitch Abernathy, who was portrayed by Woody Harrelson in the original films. This prequel follows Haymitch’s journey as a 16-year-old from District 12, forced into the brutal Hunger Games arena where he fights to survive. Despite the ruthless Capitol’s control, Haymitch remains defiant, setting the stage for the eventual rebellion against President Snow.

Following the success of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023), which explored the rise of Coriolanus Snow (played by Tom Blyth), Sunrise on the Reaping is the next chapter in The Hunger Games universe. The Sunrise on the Reaping novel hit shelves on March 18, 2025, and fans are eager to see how it will unfold on the big screen. The film is scheduled to release on November 20, 2026.

The Star-Studded Cast of “Sunrise on the Reaping”

Here’s a look at the first cast members confirmed for Sunrise on the Reaping:

Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy

Joseph Zada, a rising star, will portray a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy in Sunrise on the Reaping. This pivotal role explores Haymitch’s life in District 12 before his fateful participation in the Hunger Games. While fans already know Haymitch as a gruff, resilient character from the original Hunger Games films, Sunrise offers a deeper look into his formative years, setting the stage for the rebellion against the Capitol.

Though Zada is a newcomer to many, his name is one to watch. The 20-year-old Australian actor is also set to appear in Netflix’s East of Eden alongside Florence Pugh, and We Were Liars on Prime Video this summer. His credits also include the Australian series Invisible Boys.

Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird

Whitney Peak stars as Lenore Dove Baird, a member of the Covey, a group of traveling musicians. Lenore is not only Haymitch’s love interest but also plays a key role in his emotional journey. Fans of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes will recognize this group, as Lucy Gray Baird, another Covey member, played a central role in that prequel.

Peak is best known for her role in Gossip Girl (Max), along with appearances in The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Hocus Pocus 2. She also featured in Sabrina Carpenter’s music video for “Nonsense.”

McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner

McKenna Grace has been cast as Maysilee Donner, a fellow tribute from District 12 who competes in the Hunger Games alongside Haymitch. Maysilee plays a crucial role in Sunrise on the Reaping, becoming Haymitch’s trusted ally despite their rocky start. Fans of The Hunger Games franchise will also recognize her as the original owner of Katniss Everdeen’s Mockingjay pin, a detail missing from the original films.

Grace’s career is on the rise, with notable performances in I, Tonya as a young Margot Robbie, The Haunting of Hill House, Designated Survivor, and Ghostbusters: Afterlife. She also starred in The Handmaid’s Tale, earning an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2021. Grace will soon appear in the highly anticipated Regretting You, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel.

What to Expect from “Sunrise on the Reaping”

With its stellar cast and captivating storyline, Sunrise on the Reaping is poised to bring The Hunger Games franchise to new heights. As Haymitch’s story unfolds, fans will get a glimpse of the early days of Panem’s rebellion, with familiar characters and exciting new developments that tie directly into the saga’s overarching narrative.

Keep an eye on the latest updates as Sunrise on the Reaping approaches its November 2026 release date!