Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are set to return to the Hunger Games universe, reprising their iconic roles as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark. This notable comeback follows a decade since their last appearance in the franchise. The duo is confirmed for the upcoming prequel film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.
About The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
This new film is positioned as the second prequel in the series, following The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, which released in 2023. Sunrise on the Reaping is set to explore events from the perspective of Haymitch Abernathy, a character from District 12 who later becomes Katniss and Peeta’s mentor.
Set 24 years prior to the original The Hunger Games film and 40 years after the events of the prequel, the story begins on the day of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.
Key Plot Points
- The 50th Hunger Games features a deadly twist, with 48 tributes instead of the usual number.
- This prequel showcases the intense and perilous atmosphere of the Hunger Games.
- Haymitch’s journey will be pivotal as he navigates the challenges of this brutal competition.
Cast and Crew Details
Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson will return as Katniss and Peeta. Their last appearance was in Mockingjay—Part 2, where they settled down together in District 12, forming a family.
Additional cast members include:
- Woody Harrelson as the older Haymitch Abernathy
- Ralph Fiennes as President Snow
- Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee
- Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier
- Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman
- Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
Francis Lawrence returns to direct, and Billy Ray has adapted the screenplay from Suzanne Collins’ novel.
Trailer Release and Insights
The first teaser trailer was released on November 20, showcasing a mix of familiar and new faces. The trailer hints at heightened stakes as the young tributes compete in the dangerous arena. Glenn Close makes an appearance as Drusilla Sickle, a Capitol official.
Release Date
Filming for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping commenced in summer 2025 and concluded in November. The film is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026.
This resurgence of Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson in the Hunger Games universe is highly anticipated. Fans look forward to how the narrative will unfold and impact the franchise’s legacy.