Sunrise on the Reaping has finally given fans some major casting news. The roles of young Haymitch Abernathy (Previously played by Woody Harrelson) has been revealed. In addition, the young actress who will be playing the love of his life, Lenore Dove, has also been announced. Set to delve into the backstory of fan-favorite Hunger Games character, Haymitch, the film has officially announced its leads to be Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak.
Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak Are Haymitch Abernathy and Lenore Dove
Joseph Zada is known for his roles in Amazon’s We Were Liars and Netflix’s East of Eden. Meanwhile, Whitney Peak is recognized for her performances in the Gossip Girl reboot and Hocus Pocus 2. For fans who haven’t read the book, which serves as a prequel to the original Hunger Games novels, Sunrise on the Reaping is all about Haymitch’s story in the 50th games, also known as the second Quarter Quell, per Deadline.
Sunrise On The Reaping Is Set For a November 2026 Release
The film, scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. This installment promises to shed light on Haymitch’s formative experiences and his complex relationship with Lenore. It also brings back some beloved characters from the original series, as fans get to know their backstories a bit better as well.
Lionsgate’s co-president, Erin Westerman, expressed enthusiasm about the casting choices, stating, “The Hunger Games franchise has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and Jo and Whitney carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire.” She emphasized that the duo stood out among hundreds of auditionees for the emotional truth they brought to these iconic roles.
Fans Can’t Wait For Next Hunger Games Installment
“I’m so excited,” one person tweeted.
“Hyped for Haymitch’s origin story! Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak look perfect for this,” another wrote.
The most recent Hunger Games prequel film, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, grossed over $348 million worldwide. This means that expectations are high for Sunrise on the Reaping. As the franchise continues to explore the rich tapestry of Panem’s history, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this dystopian saga. The book is a beautiful story of love, loss, and tragedy. Of course, there’s still time to read if before the film hits theaters next year.
