Actor Joseph Zada has offered a new glimpse into his role as a young Haymitch Abernathy in the highly anticipated prequel The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. In a behind-the-scenes featurette released this week, Zada discussed the responsibility of stepping into a character made iconic by Woody Harrelson in the original film series.
“It’s been intense being like Woody’s Haymitch. It’s just so special to share that space with him,” Zada said, expressing his admiration for Harrelson’s original performance. Producer Nina Jacobson and director Francis Lawrence both praised the depth of the character, with Lawrence noting that Harrelson’s portrayal remains one of the most iconic in the franchise.
Set 24 years before the events of the first Hunger Games, the film focuses on the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. The narrative explores Haymitch’s early defiance of the Capitol and the experiences that led to his eventual role as a mentor. The cast also features Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Maya Hawke as Wiress, and Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow.
According to the Lionsgate synopsis, the film tracks the “loss of innocence” and the awakening of Haymitch’s revolutionary spirit. Reflecting on the filming process, Zada described the project as a “life-changing experience.” The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for wide release in theaters on November 20.