Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Casts Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak
Lionsgate’s Hunger Games prequel finds its young Haymitch Abernathy and adds new star power to the cast.
The highly anticipated prequel to The Hunger Games, titled Sunrise on the Reaping, has officially cast its young Haymitch Abernathy. Rising actor Joseph Zada will take on the iconic role, originally played by Woody Harrelson in the blockbuster film series based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling books.
This casting news marks a major step forward for the next installment in the beloved dystopian franchise.
Joseph Zada Joins The Hunger Games Franchise
Joseph Zada, best known for his roles in the upcoming Prime Video series We Were Liars and Netflix’s East of Eden, will portray a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy. Haymitch, a fan-favorite character, was first introduced in the 2012 film The Hunger Games and became a central figure in Katniss Everdeen’s story.
Zada’s casting brings a fresh face to a complex character whose early life and original Hunger Games victory are at the heart of the new film.
Whitney Peak Cast as Lenore Dove Baird
Starring alongside Zada is Whitney Peak, who has been cast as Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend. Peak is known for her performances in Hocus Pocus 2, the Gossip Girl reboot, and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. She also serves as a global ambassador for Chanel.
Her character, Lenore, plays a pivotal role in shaping Haymitch’s emotional journey during the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.
What is Sunrise on the Reaping About?
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute in the original series. The story follows 16-year-old Haymitch as he prepares for the 50th Hunger Games — a brutal edition of the games with double the number of tributes.
This new prequel dives deep into:
Haymitch’s traumatic experience in the arena
His relationship with Lenore Dove Baird
The political landscape of Panem before Katniss’ revolution
The emotional and psychological toll of the Games
Lionsgate Teases Powerful Performances
According to Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, the casting team auditioned hundreds of actors from around the world. Zada and Peak stood out for their “emotional truth” and ability to bring depth to these iconic roles.
“Haymitch has always been a fan favorite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise,” Westerman said. “We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series.”
Release Date and Book Success
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. The movie is based on Suzanne Collins’ fifth Hunger Games novel, which was published just last month.
The book has already made waves — selling 1.5 million copies in its first week — proving that the Hunger Games universe is as popular as ever.
A Look Back: Previous Hunger Games Prequels
The last prequel film, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023), was a box office hit, earning over $348 million worldwide. With the success of that film and the enduring love for the franchise, expectations are high for Sunrise on the Reaping.
Why Fans Are Excited About Sunrise on the Reaping
This prequel promises:
A deeper look into Haymitch Abernathy’s character
A new chapter in Panem’s history
Thrilling action and high-stakes drama
A love story that adds emotional depth to the narrative
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