Joseph Zada has been chosen to play the younger version of Haymitch Abernathy, the character made popular by Woody Harrelson, in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel. Entertainment Weekly
A new Hunger Games movie is coming soon. It’s called Sunrise on the Reaping. This film will show the younger years of Haymitch Abernathy, a fan-favorite character played by Woody Harrelson in the earlier movies. The filmmakers have now chosen the actor who will play young Haymitch.
Joseph Zada will play this important role. He has acted in shows like We Were Liars and East of Eden. The team said that many actors auditioned for the part, but Zada brought something special to the character.
Alongside Zada, the movie has also cast Whitney Peak. She will play Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend. Peak has acted in several well-known shows and films. You might know her from Hocus Pocus 2 and the Gossip Girl reboot. She is also known as a global fashion brand ambassador.
The movie’s studio shared their excitement in a statement. They said, “After auditioning hundreds of gifted performers from around the world, these two stood out — not just for their talent, but for the emotional truth they brought to these iconic roles.”
Fans are especially excited to see Haymitch’s story on screen. His past has always been a mystery in the Hunger Games world. Now, they’ll get to watch the events that shaped him into the tough mentor Katniss later meets.
Whitney Peak has landed a lead role in the upcoming *Hunger Games* movie *Sunrise on the Reaping*. Entertainment Weekly
This new story happens during the 50th Hunger Games, also called the Second Quarter Quell. It takes place 24 years before Katniss volunteers as tribute. The movie starts on the morning of the Reaping, the day when tributes are chosen. At this time, Haymitch is only 16 years old.
The film is based on the book Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. It’s the fifth novel in the Hunger Games series. The book came out just last month and was an instant hit. In its first week, it sold 1.5 million copies in English alone.
The movie is planned to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. Fans of the franchise have been waiting eagerly for this next chapter. The last prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, was a big success. It made more than $348 million around the world.
This new film is expected to dive deeper into the world of Panem. It will explore Haymitch’s early life and his strong bond with Lenore. These details will help viewers understand his character more fully.
Fans can look forward to action, drama, and a closer look at one of the most complex characters in the Hunger Games world.
