Josh Hutcherson Open to Returning for Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
The Hunger Games franchise continues to expand with its next prequel, Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, scheduled to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. Fans are buzzing not only about the story’s return to Panem but also about the possibility of seeing a familiar face: Josh Hutcherson, who famously played Peeta Mellark in the original series.
What is Sunrise on the Reaping About?
Based on the newly released novel by Suzanne Collins, Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping explores Panem 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s rise. The story begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the second Quarter Quell, where a young Haymitch Abernathy is chosen as a tribute. The prequel offers fans a deeper look into the brutal world of Panem and the political dynamics that shaped the Hunger Games long before Katniss volunteered as tribute.
Josh Hutcherson on Returning as Peeta
While Sunrise on the Reaping is primarily focused on Haymitch’s Games, the book includes a brief appearance by an older Peeta Mellark and Katniss Everdeen, as Haymitch recounts his experience to them. That detail leaves the door open for Hutcherson to potentially reprise his role.
Speaking to Brit + Co, Hutcherson shared:
“That’d be cool. No, I know nothing in that world right now. Hunger Games is amazing, and I’ve loved it for many years and I will love it forever.”
The actor has previously expressed his willingness to step back into Peeta’s shoes, saying:
“I would happily play Peeta again. I think Peeta’s an incredible person to get to bring to life. I’m curious to know what happens between when they have their family and when the story ends. But I’m down. If you can talk to Suzanne Collins and tell her to write a book, I’m in. Sign me up.”
The Cast of Sunrise on the Reaping
The prequel boasts an impressive cast:
- Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy (taking over from Woody Harrelson).
- Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s love interest.
- Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket.
- Glenn Close as Drusilla Sickle.
- Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee.
- McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner.
- Billy Porter as Magno Stift.
- Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman.
- Maya Hawke as Wiress.
- Lili Taylor as Mags.
- Ralph Fiennes as President Snow.
With such a powerhouse ensemble, Sunrise on the Reaping promises to deliver both emotional depth and thrilling action.
Creative Team
The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, who previously helmed Catching Fire, Mockingjay Part 1 & 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. The screenplay is written by Billy Ray and Suzanne Collins, ensuring the adaptation remains faithful to the source material while building on the cinematic legacy of the franchise.
Meet the Casting Directors Behind Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
The film’s impressive cast was assembled by an equally accomplished team of casting directors:
- Lynn Kressel – A veteran casting director and producer, known for Spider-Man (2002), Law & Order (1990), and Dune: Part Two (2024).
- Cindy Lin – Worked on Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024), The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023), and Cocaine Bear (2023).
- Joseph Middleton – Known for American Pie (1999), Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), and A Single Man (2009).
- Verity Naughton – Recognized for her work on Enola Holmes (2020), The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023), and The Creator (2023).
This powerhouse casting team ensures that Sunrise on the Reaping will balance established stars with exciting new talent, continuing the franchise’s reputation for iconic performances.
Why Fans Should Be Excited
Following the success of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Sunrise on the Reaping expands the Hunger Games universe with fresh stories, political intrigue, and the backstory of one of the series’ most beloved mentors: Haymitch Abernathy. With the possibility of Josh Hutcherson making a cameo as Peeta, longtime fans have even more reason to be excited.
Stay Tuned for Casting Opportunities
As Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping heads toward its 2026 release, production may open opportunities for actors, background performers, and crew.
👉 For audition updates and casting calls for Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as opportunities become available.
