New Hunger Games Prequel Casts Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak

A new chapter in the Hunger Games universe is officially underway. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a prequel centered on a young Haymitch Abernathy, has announced its lead cast — Joseph Zada will portray 16-year-old Haymitch, and Whitney Peak will play his love interest, Lenore Dove Baird.

The film adapts Suzanne Collins’ newest novel, released in March 2025, and is set for a theatrical release in November 2026. Directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence, this marks the fifth installment in the blockbuster dystopian series.

Set 24 years before the events of the original trilogy, the story follows Haymitch as the District 12 tribute during the 50th Hunger Games. Fans will recognize Haymitch as the gruff mentor played by Woody Harrelson in the original films.

Lionsgate’s Erin Westerman shared that Haymitch’s origin story is one of the most eagerly awaited narratives in the franchise, noting that his bond with Lenore adds emotional depth to Panem’s history. She praised both Zada and Peak for bringing heart and intensity to their roles, continuing the franchise’s tradition of launching young talent.

Zada, known for Invisible Boys and Netflix’s upcoming East of Eden, and Peak, recognized from Gossip Girl and Hocus Pocus 2, are expected to bring fresh energy to the beloved universe.

This is the second prequel in the series, following The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, which explored the early life of Coriolanus Snow and earned $349 million globally in its 2023 film adaptation.