Lionsgate just dropped the first teaser for “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.” The prequel releases on November 20, 2026. Actor Joseph Zada plays young Haymitch Abernathy in this star-studded prequel. The film explores the 50th Hunger Games, set 24 years before Katniss’s story begins.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Teaser Trailer Released: November 20, 2025 – just yesterday
- Release Date: Theatrical release on November 20, 2026
- Director: Francis Lawrence (original trilogy helmer)
- Lead Actor: Joseph Zada as young Haymitch – not Woody Harrelson
- Star-Studded Cast: Elle Fanning, Ralph Fiennes, Jesse Plemons, McKenna Grace
The First Look at Young Haymitch
Joseph Zada makes his film debut as Haymitch Abernathy. The 2-minute teaser shows him on the morning the 50th Hunger Games reaping begins. Zada previously starred in the series “We Were Liars.” This casting marks a major shift for fans who remember Woody Harrelson‘s iconic portrayal in the original films.
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The prequel is set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s era in Panem. Director Francis Lawrence adapted the film from Suzanne Collins’s novel of the same name. The screenplay comes from Billy Ray. This is a true origin story, diving deep into how Haymitch became the legendary mentor to Katniss.
“Get ready for the thrilling prequel to the iconic Hunger Games series.”
A Star-Studded Prequel Cast
Elle Fanning joins the cast as young Effie Trinket, the Capitol escort. Ralph Fiennes plays President Snow in his younger years. Jesse Plemons takes on another Capitol character. McKenna Grace stars as Maysilee Donner, a tribute. Whitney Peak plays Lenore Dove Baird. This ensemble rivals the quality of the original trilogy cast.
The film marks Francis Lawrence’s return as director after helming all four original Hunger Games movies. Producer Nina Jacobson returns as well. Lionsgate is betting big on this prequel to expand the franchise’s reach to new and veteran audiences.
What the Teaser Reveals About the Plot
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Setting | 50th Hunger Games (~24 years before original trilogy) |
| Main Character | Young Haymitch Abernathy as tribute (played by Joseph Zada) |
| Key Moment | Haymitch selected during reaping on morning of games |
| Villain | President Snow shown as younger man (played by Ralph Fiennes) |
| Release Format | Theatrical only – November 20, 2026 |
The teaser hints at massive action sequences and political intrigue. Panem looks darker in this era. Haymitch’s transformation from tribute to survivor unfolds against Snow’s rise to power. This setup promises high stakes for fans familiar with Haymitch’s traumatic past.
What to Expect Before November 2026
- Full Trailer Coming Soon: More footage will drop in spring 2026
- Merchandise Launch: Lionsgate typically releases promotional items 6-9 months before release
- Cast Interviews: Expect Joseph Zada and Elle Fanning on talk shows next year
- Fan Events: Comic-Con 2026 panel likely features Francis Lawrence and cast
- Book Adaptations: The novel is still climbing bestseller lists as fans re-read it
Does This Prequel Honor Haymitch’s Legacy?
Fans have waited 13 years since the last Hunger Games film for this prequel. Woody Harrelson made Haymitch Abernathy iconic. Now Joseph Zada has the challenging task of showing us how that character was created. The teaser suggests he carries gravitas beyond his years. The script hints at tragedy, survival, and the seeds of his later cynicism.
Francis Lawrence’s direction promises visual spectacle matched only by emotional depth. The original films succeeded because they balanced action with character development. This prequel aims for the same balance but with fresh faces leading the charge. Panem fans should circle November 20, 2026 on their calendars now.
Will Haymitch’s origin story break your heart like the original trilogy did? You’ll find out when the film hits theaters.
Sources
- Lionsgate Movies – Official YouTube trailer and announcement
- CNN Entertainment – First look coverage and director confirmation
- ABC News Good Morning America – Cast details and teaser analysis
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.