By: Jessica A. Dennehy
Over a decade after Mockingjay Part 2 (2015) came out in theaters and three years after A Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023), the latest film rendition of the Hunger Games franchise is set to release in November 2026. Lionsgate, the same production house behind all the previous movies, is ushering in a new era for the franchise—this time centered around the 50th Hunger Games and a young Haymitch Abernathy. The prequel traces Haymitch’s descent into the hardened, drunken mentor fans remember from the original series. With a cast that blends established stars and rising talent, the film promises a fresh yet familiar journey. Here’s a look at the new cast—and the iconic roles they’re stepping into.
Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy
Australian actor Joseph Zada has been cast in the starring role of teenage Haymitch Abernathy. Although he is still very much a rising star, at twenty years old, Zada is known for his performances in Invisible Boys and Total Control. Beyond Sunrise on the Reaping, Zada is also expected to appear in the film We Were Liars (2025) and the Netflix series East of Eden (2026). Stepping into the character that was previously immortalized by the iconic Woody Harrelson, Zada will have the challenge of embodying Seam-boy Haymitch as he transforms from an idealistic teen to the hardened victor of the Second Quarter Quell.
Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird
Joining the project is Whitney Peak, a Ugandan–Canadian actress, as Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend in the novel. As a member of the Covey, the same traveling musical troupe from District 12 as Lucy Gray Baird, the role is one of unapologetic individualism and creative flair. With twenty-two-year-old Peak’s portrayal in HBO’s Gossip Girl reboot (2021-2023) and Hocus Pocus 2 (2022), her youthful energy and emotional depth will serve her well as Haymitch’s love interest.
Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner
Maysilee Donner, a fellow tribute and reluctant ally to Haymitch, will be played by American actress Mckenna Grace. Despite being only 18, Grace has already made her mark on the Hollywood scene, known for her standout roles in Gifted (2017), The Handmaid’s Tale (since 2017), and Young Sheldon (2017-2024). Her powerful performances should make her well-suited to play the valiant, albeit superficial, Maysilee as she faces the horrors of the games and her tragic end.
Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
“Chins up, smiles on!” A young Effie Trinket, the Capitol’s colorful escort for the tributes of District 12, will be played by the American actress Elle Fanning. Already having received a stamp of approval by the character’s original actress, Elizabeth Banks, Fanning is expected to portray a not-so-refined version of the character, one who is still trying to find her feet in the Capital and its games. Acclaimed for her roles in Maleficent (2014), The Great (2020-2023), and A Complete Unknown (2024), there is no doubt in my mind that she will enhance the role of the lovable Effie Trinket.
Ralph Fiennes as President Snow
Ralph Fiennes is President Snow. This is not a drill. Repeat: Ralph Fiennes, the English actor who played Voldemort from the Harry Potter franchise, Amon Goeth from Schindler’s List, and Cardinal Lawrence from Conclave… is now President Snow. Fiennes will be in an especially interesting position in regards to his role, with Tom Blythe portraying Cornelius Snow in the prior prequel and ballad of Songbird and Snakes and Donald Sutherland playing the older version in the original franchise. He’ll be forced to continue the story arc introduced, add his own distinctive flair to the role, all whilst ensuring that his portrayal melds nicely into the Sutherland role. Fiennes will be brutal; Fiennes will be tyrannical: but the details that create a character? We as an audience will have to wait to see what the distinctly Fiennes intensity will bring to the film as he explores the character’s gradual descent into tyranny.
As The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping prepares for its release in theaters in November 2026, this fresh ensemble of actors—both seasoned and up-and-coming—promises to bring a new spin to a long-loved franchise. And from the casting decisions alone, Sunrise on the Reaping is poised to become a powerful addition to the beloved saga that has captivated audiences for over a decade. May the odds forever be in our favor—see you in theaters November 2026!