Lionsgate has announced the casting of Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy and Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird in "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping." This prequel, set 24 years before the original Hunger Games, focuses on a 16-year-old Haymitch's participation in the 50th Hunger Games. Producers praised Zada and Peak's talent and emotional depth, highlighting the significance of Haymitch's origin story and his relationship with Lenore. The film, directed by Francis Lawrence, is slated for release on November 20, 2026, and follows the success of the previous Hunger Games films, which grossed over $3.3 billion worldwide.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.