The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Featurette Introduces Joseph Zada as Young Haymitch Ahead of November Release

Lionsgate has unveiled an exciting new behind-the-scenes featurette for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, giving fans their first in-depth look at Joseph Zada's transformation into a young Haymitch Abernathy. The highly anticipated prequel expands the world of Panem by taking audiences back to the 50th Hunger Games, decades before Katniss Everdeen's story began. With its November 20, 2026 release date drawing closer, the latest preview is already generating major buzz among Hunger Games fans.

Set 24 years before the events of the original films, Sunrise on the Reaping follows Haymitch Abernathy during the infamous Second Quarter Quell. Unlike previous editions of the deadly competition, the 50th Hunger Games forces every district to send twice as many tributes to the Capitol, making the already brutal event even more dangerous. As one of District 12's chosen tributes, Haymitch must navigate impossible odds while discovering the harsh realities of Panem's cruel system.

The newly released featurette shines a spotlight on Joseph Zada, who steps into one of the franchise's most beloved roles. Fans are treated to behind-the-scenes footage, cast interviews, and insights into how Zada prepared to portray the younger version of Haymitch. The video also draws a strong connection between his performance and Woody Harrelson's iconic portrayal in the original four Hunger Games films, showing how the character's past shaped the mentor audiences came to know.

The prequel also boasts a star-studded cast that is sure to excite longtime fans. Jesse Plemons plays Plutarch Heavensbee, while Ralph Fiennes takes on the role of President Coriolanus Snow. Glenn Close joins the franchise as Drusilla Sickle, with Kieran Culkin portraying Caesar Flickerman. Elle Fanning appears as a younger Effie Trinket, while Mckenna Grace plays District 12 tribute Maysilee Donner. The impressive ensemble is rounded out by Maya Hawke, Whitney Peak, and Kelvin Harrison Jr., promising fresh faces alongside familiar characters from Panem's history.

Acclaimed filmmaker Francis Lawrence returns to direct the latest chapter in the blockbuster franchise after helming several previous Hunger Games films. The screenplay has been written by Billy Ray and is based on Suzanne Collins' bestselling novel, which was published in 2025. With the original creative team returning alongside an exciting new cast, expectations are high for another emotional and action-packed journey into the dystopian world.

The featurette serves as a reminder that The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping isn't simply another prequel—it aims to deepen the mythology of Panem while revealing the tragic experiences that shaped Haymitch Abernathy into one of the series' most unforgettable characters. As the countdown to November 20, 2026 continues, fans can expect even more trailers, behind-the-scenes footage, and surprises leading up to what could become one of the year's biggest blockbuster releases.