Comparing the ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ cast to the OG ‘Hunger Games’ icons

Then vs. now

The original Hunger Games (2012–15) introduced Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, alongside Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Woody Harrelson. The films became a global sensation, earning over $3.3 billion worldwide.

The upcoming prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, debuts November 20, 2026. Set 24 years before Katniss’s story begins, it returns to Panem’s brutal arena with a mix of new faces and familiar talent, honoring the original while offering fresh insight into key legacy characters.

Whitney Peak’s Lenore Dove Baird

Whitney Peak, best known for her role as Zoya in the Gossip Girl reboot, takes on the role of Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend in the prequel timeline. Lenore is a new addition to the Hunger Games universe, designed to deepen Haymitch’s emotional backstory.

Peak brings a fresh energy to the franchise. Her rising star status and grounded performances fit perfectly with the series’ tradition of casting youthful leads who carry emotional weight and authenticity on screen.

Mckenna Grace revives Maysilee Donner

McKenna Grace, known for standout performances in Gifted and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, steps into the role of Maysilee, the original owner of the iconic mockingjay pin. As a pivotal character in Panem’s history, Maysilee adds emotional depth to the prequel’s narrative.

Grace’s ability to portray complex, emotionally rich characters makes her an ideal choice. Her casting has already generated buzz, with many praising it as a strong move that promises to bring heart and nuance to this important role.

Elle Fanning inherits Effie Trinket

Elle Fanning steps into the iconic shoes of Effie Trinket, the Capitol escort whose style and sass masked deeper emotional evolution. Originally played by Elizabeth Banks, Effie became a fan favorite for her fashion and eventual humanity.

Fanning’s casting brings youthful elegance and emotional complexity, traits she’s shown in The Great and Maleficent. Banks reposted the casting news, offering her blessing and praise. As EW noted, Fanning’s poised yet expressive range makes her “a perfect fit to explore Effie’s early Capitol roots.”

Joseph Zada as Young Haymitch

Newcomer Joseph Zada, an Australian actor with roles on Invisible Boys and Total Control, steps into the spotlight as young Haymitch Abernathy. Woody Harrelson defined the older Haymitch with a world-weary snark and hidden warmth.

Zada faces big shoes, but Lionsgate lauds his “emotional truth.” Polygon observed that Zada’s casting sticks to the Hunger Games tradition, risky but full of potential.

Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee

Jesse Plemons steps into the role of Plutarch Heavensbee, the shrewd Head Gamemaker who helped ignite rebellion from within. Taking over from the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, Plemons brings a new dimension to the character, anchored in his signature style of quiet intensity.

With acclaimed roles in Breaking Bad, Fargo, and The Power of the Dog, Plemons is known for portraying morally complex characters with restraint and depth. Fans expect his Plutarch to be more intricately woven into the prequel’s political tensions.

Maya Hawke steps in as Wiress

Maya Hawke, widely recognized for her role in Stranger Things, enters the Hunger Games universe as Wiress, a gifted but emotionally delicate tribute first portrayed by Amanda Plummer. Known for her cryptic phrases and key strategic insight, Wiress plays a crucial role in shifting the Games’ direction.

Hawke’s casting continues the franchise’s tradition of elevating rising talent in complex roles. Her blend of offbeat charisma and emotional nuance makes her a strong fit for Wiress’s eerie brilliance. Many believe this could mark her next major breakout.

Ralph Fiennes as President Snow

Ralph Fiennes, renowned for his commanding and often sinister performances, takes on the role of President Snow, previously embodied by Donald Sutherland.

Known for portraying iconic villains like Voldemort and Amon Goeth, Fiennes brings a refined menace and gravitas that elevates the character’s presence.

His casting suggests that Sunrise on the Reaping will dive deeper into the political machinations of Panem. Audiences can expect a more calculated, ambitious Snow, one still ascending but already mastering the art of quiet control and ruthless leadership.

Kieran Culkin’s Caesar Flickerman

Kieran Culkin leaves the boardrooms of Succession behind for the bright lights of the Capitol as he steps into the role of Caesar Flickerman, the flamboyant host of the Hunger Games once played by Stanley Tucci.

Culkin’s sharp timing and emotional unpredictability make him a compelling choice. Fans anticipate a more daring, possibly unfiltered take on Caesar, capturing the chaos of Panem’s early media machine in a bold new way.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee

Kelvin Harrison Jr., known for powerful performances in Waves and The Trial of the Chicago 7, takes on the role of Beetee, an inventive genius whose quiet presence often shifts the course of the Games.

This prequel gives audiences a chance to explore his origins more fully. Harrison’s skill at blending emotional depth with sharp intellect makes him an ideal choice to portray Beetee’s early evolution into a strategic powerhouse.

Glenn Close & Billy Porter introduce new adults

Two powerhouse performers, Glenn Close and Billy Porter, join the Sunrise on the Reaping cast as original characters Drusilla Sickle and Magno Stift. While details about their roles remain under wraps, their casting instantly raises the stakes and adds dramatic weight to the ensemble.

Known for their commanding screen presence and nuanced performances, Close and Porter are poised to bring complexity to the adult world of Panem. Their presence suggests a deeper dive into Capitol politics and emotional power plays, signaling a more ambitious chapter in the franchise.

A tradition of balanced casting

From Jennifer Lawrence to Josh Andrés Rivera, the Hunger Games universe has built its reputation on discovering fresh talent with magnetic screen presence, while anchoring them alongside seasoned veterans.

Sunrise on the Reaping continues this tradition, pairing rising stars with industry heavyweights like Ralph Fiennes and Glenn Close.

This casting approach allows emerging actors to grow under the guidance of respected performers, creating a layered, emotionally grounded ensemble. It’s a smart legacy move that reinforces the franchise’s commitment to character-driven storytelling and long-term audience trust.

Fan skepticism and optimism

Initial reactions to the new Sunrise on the Reaping cast have ranged from cautious curiosity to growing praise. While some fans are hesitant, especially with Joseph Zada stepping into the shadow of Woody Harrelson’s iconic Haymitch, there’s a shared willingness to see what unfolds.

Across Reddit and social media, the buzz is building. One user put it best: “It’s not the most recognizable cast, but it’s a strong lineup.” As more trailers surface, audiences seem ready to invest in this next generation of tributes and mentors.

Prequel deepens the lore

Set 24 years before Katniss’s first Games, Sunrise on the Reaping explores a lesser-known yet crucial chapter in Panem’s history.

Centering on Haymitch’s harrowing Quarter Quell victory, the film also delves into the early grip of President Snow’s regime and the psychological forces that bind the Capitol to its power.

The casting reflects these layers intentionally. Younger actors represent the raw beginnings of rebellion and personal sacrifice, while veteran performers embody the political machinery and emotional cost of maintaining control.

From book sales to box office kayfabe

Suzanne Collins’ Sunrise on the Reaping sold over 1.5 million copies within its first week, making it one of 2025’s biggest publishing events. Lionsgate quickly greenlit the adaptation, with a theatrical release scheduled for November 20, 2026.

The casting strategy mimics what made the original films successful: raw talent paired with experienced mentors. With such a strong reception and growing fan engagement online, industry analysts expect this prequel to draw major box office numbers.

Another box office hit? Hunger Games prequel aims to follow Wicked’s Korean success.

The stakes and the legacy

Sunrise on the Reaping isn’t just a prequel; it’s a cinematic bridge connecting Panem’s past with the legacy fans hold dear. The casting reflects that balance: the torch passes from Harrelson’s Haymitch to Zada’s, from Elizabeth Banks to Dakota Fanning, blending the familiar with the fresh.

This mix of franchise veterans and rising talent creates a dynamic foundation. As new faces step into the arena, the story expands with respect for its roots and a bold eye toward the future, true to the Hunger Games spirit.

Jennifer Lawrence took Ambien during Hunger Games, but the franchise is more awake than ever in ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’.

Have you watched the OG Hunger Games? Let us know in the comments!

Read More From This Brand:

• 15 unlucky characters from movies and TV.
• Game of Thrones heads to the big screen.
• ‘The Last of Us’ renewed for season 3.

Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN.

If you liked this story, you’ll LOVE our FREE emails. Join today and be the first to get stories like this one.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and with human editing