Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson set to return in new ‘Hunger Games’ prequel

Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are returning to Panem. The actors will reprise their roles as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a prequel centred on a young Haymitch Abernathy, according to multiple outlets.

Their appearance is expected to be brief and positioned near the end of the film, echoing the epilogue of Suzanne Collins’ novel. In the book, Katniss and Peeta visit Haymitch after the Capitol uprising and learn the truth about his experience in the Second Quarter Quell. Haymitch reflects on why he refused to contribute to a post-war memorial, saying, “What use? What point? To relive all the loss.” Katniss and Peeta respond with a gesture of comfort, offering him a flock of geese in memory of his late love, Lenora Dove Baird. “Like the geese,” he tells them, “we really did mate for life.”

Although Woody Harrelson has not confirmed a return as the older Haymitch, his voice is heard in the film’s teaser, saying: “I think these games are gonna be different.”

When does Sunrise on the Reaping release?

Lionsgate has confirmed the film will be released on 20 November 2026, with Joseph Zada leading the cast as teenage Haymitch.

What is Sunrise on the Reaping about?

Based on Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel, the story takes place 24 years before Katniss’ first Games. It opens on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, a Quarter Quell that requires double the number of tributes. In District 12, Haymitch tries to focus on surviving the day and staying close to the girl he loves rather than the overwhelming odds ahead.

Who stars in the prequel?

The film features a new ensemble alongside several major names. Joseph Zada plays young Haymitch, joined by Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird and McKenna Grace as fellow tribute Maysilee Donner. Jesse Plemons appears as Plutarch Heavensbee, while Kelvin Harrison Jr., Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor, Ben Wang, Molly McCann and Iona Bell complete the District 12 line-up. Ralph Fiennes joins as President Snow, Elle Fanning steps in as Effie Trinket and Kieran Culkin takes over as Caesar Flickerman.

Who is behind the film?

Francis Lawrence returns to direct after helming Catching Fire and both Mockingjay instalments. Billy Ray, who adapted the original film, is back as screenwriter. Producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson lead the project, with Cameron MacConomy serving as executive producer.