Quick Read
- Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak have been cast as leads in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.’
- Zada will play a young Haymitch Abernathy, while Peak will portray Lenore Dove Baird.
- The prequel, based on Suzanne Collins’ novel, explores Haymitch’s origin story during the 50th Hunger Games.
- Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film is set to release in November 2026.
- The casting has generated significant buzz, continuing the franchise’s tradition of launching young talent.
Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak to Lead Hunger Games Prequel
The Hunger Games franchise is set to expand with its sixth installment, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,’ and Lionsgate has officially announced the casting of its two leading roles. Rising stars Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak will portray pivotal characters in the prequel, which delves into the origin story of fan-favorite Haymitch Abernathy and his relationship with Lenore Dove Baird.
Who Are the New Leads?
Joseph Zada, an Australian actor known for his role in the series ‘Invisible Boys,’ will take on the role of a young Haymitch Abernathy. Haymitch, originally played by Woody Harrelson in the first five films, is a sharp and resourceful District 12 victor who mentored Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in the original series. In the prequel, Zada’s Haymitch will be thrust into the brutal 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, where he must navigate a deadly arena with 48 tributes.
Whitney Peak, best known for her roles in the ‘Gossip Girl’ reboot and ‘Hocus Pocus 2,’ will play Lenore Dove Baird, a significant figure in Haymitch’s formative years. Lenore’s character is deeply intertwined with the emotional history of Panem, offering a new perspective on Haymitch’s past and the events that shaped him.
About the Prequel
‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novel of the same name. Set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s time, the story begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games. This edition of the Games introduces a shocking twist: double the tributes, with 48 children forced to compete in the arena.
Francis Lawrence, who directed multiple installments of the original franchise, returns to helm the prequel. The screenplay is written by Billy Ray, with producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson of Color Force guiding the project. Cameron MacConomy serves as executive producer, while Lionsgate’s Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien oversee production.
Why This Casting Matters
The casting of Zada and Peak has generated significant buzz, continuing the franchise’s tradition of launching young talent. Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman praised the actors, stating, “Jo and Whitney carry the legacy of the franchise forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire.” She emphasized their ability to bring emotional truth to these iconic roles, which were highly sought after by young actors worldwide.
Producer Nina Jacobson echoed this sentiment, highlighting the exhaustive search process led by casting directors Deb Zane and Dylan Jury. She described Zada’s preparation and performance as captivating and noted that Peak’s portrayal of Lenore Dove was equally impressive. “When we put the two of them together, it was one of those magical casting moments when you know your search has led you home,” Jacobson said.
What Fans Can Expect
The prequel aims to explore Haymitch’s journey from a sharp and resourceful teenager to the sardonic but caring mentor fans know from the original series. His relationship with Lenore Dove will add emotional depth to the narrative, offering insights into the events that shaped his character.
Fans of the franchise can also look forward to stylistic continuity, as Francis Lawrence’s return ensures a seamless transition from the original films to the prequel. The film is set to release on November 20, 2026, marking a highly anticipated return to the dystopian world of Panem.
About the Actors
Joseph Zada is quickly making a name for himself in the entertainment industry. In addition to his role in ‘Invisible Boys,’ he stars in the upcoming Prime Video series ‘We Were Liars’ and recently completed production on Netflix’s ‘East of Eden,’ a limited series based on John Steinbeck’s novel.
Whitney Peak has an equally impressive slate of projects. She will star in the Sony thriller ‘Shiver’ and the Amazon MGM film ‘4 Kids Walk into a Bank.’ Peak is also a global Chanel ambassador, making history as the first Black face of the Coco Mademoiselle fragrance.
The Legacy of The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games franchise has been a cultural phenomenon since the release of the first film in 2012. The series has grossed over $3.3 billion at the global box office and launched the careers of several young actors, including Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth.
‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ is expected to continue this legacy, offering fans a deeper understanding of Panem’s history and the characters who inhabit it. With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and experienced creative team, the prequel is poised to be a significant addition to the franchise.