The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will be the sixth installment in the franchise and the second prequel. Scheduled for theatrical release on November 20, 2026, the film will delve into the origins of Haymitch Abernathy, exploring his experiences during the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Second Quarter Quell.
Plot Overview
Sunrise on the Reaping takes place 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games series, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy. At just 16 years old, Haymitch is thrust into the arena during the brutal Second Quarter Quell, which features double the number of tributes. The story will explore his journey from a naive tribute to a hardened victor, providing insight into the early days of the Hunger Games and the formation of the Capitol’s propaganda machine.
Adaptation
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is based on the novel of the same name by Suzanne Collins, who also authored the original Hunger Games trilogy and its first prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.
Release Date
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled to premiere in theaters on November 20, 2026.
Cast
Ralph Fiennes attends the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards at Palm Springs Convention Center on January 03, 2025 in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Palm Springs International Film Society)
Ralph Fiennes was confirmed to portray President Snow in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, creating huge expectations from fans eager to see his take on the complex and chilling leader once portrayed by Donald Sutherland.. Joseph Zada has been cast as young Haymitch Abernathy, taking over the role from Woody Harrelson, who portrayed the older Haymitch in the original films. Whitney Peak stars as Lenore Dove Baird, a new character described as Haymitch Abernathy’s love interest and a descendant of Lucy Gray Baird, linking the story to the events of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Mckenna Grace plays Maysilee Donner, Haymitch ‘s fellow tribute from District 12.
