The film adaptation of the latest Hunger Games novel is moving forward with the announcement of the casting for its two lead roles.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will star Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy, the District 12 Tribute, and Whitney Peak as Haymitch’s girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird.

The film, set to hit cinemas in November 2026, is based on Suzanne Collins’ latest book published on 18 March 2025. Francis Lawrence, who directed the last four film adaptations of the franchise, is set to direct.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is the fifth instalment of the popular young adult dystopian saga. It tells the story of the 50th Hunger Games, 24 years before the events of the original trilogy that introduced fans to Katniss Everdeen and the world of Panem.

This prequel focuses on the character of Haymitch Abernathy at the age of 16, as he competes in the gladiator-like games for District 12.

In the original films of the franchise, an adult Haymitch became Katniss’ mentor, and was played by Woody Harrelson.

“Haymitch has always been a fan favourite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise. His relationship with Lenore Dove is deeply woven into the emotional history of Panem. We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series”, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erin Westerman told Deadline.

“The Hunger Games franchise has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and Jo [Zada] and Whitney [Peak] carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire”, she said.

Joseph Zada, 20, has starred in the Australian series Invisible Boys and in the upcoming Netflix adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel “East of Eden.” Whitney Peak, 22, is best known for starring in the short-lived Gossip Girl reboot and in Hocus Pocus 2.

“Sunrise on the Reaping” is the saga’s second prequel, following “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”

Suzanne Collins’ 2020 novel focused on the youth of Panem’s president Coriolanus Snow, the main antagonist of the original trilogy. Its 2023 adaptation starring Tom Blyth and Rachel Zegler grossed $349 million worldwide.

Additional sources • Deadline