The Sunrise on the Reaping movie is bringing fresh life to The Hunger Games franchise, and as Haymitch Abernathy teases in the first trailer, “these Games are going to be different.”
Fans have been buzzing about Haymitch’s infamous Quarter Quell ever since it was briefly mentioned in Catching Fire. So, when Suzanne Collins confirmed not only a new prequel novel but also the Sunrise on the Reaping movie adaptation, excitement hit an all-time high.
While the original trilogy offered small glimpses of Haymitch’s Games — notably, the year when double the tributes were chosen — the novel dives much deeper. Readers get an intimate look at Haymitch’s past, including his emotional connection with Lenore Dove Baird, a member of the Covey and distant kin to Katniss Everdeen. Along the way, several familiar faces emerge, adding even more anticipation for the upcoming film.
Sunrise on the Reaping movie casting surprises fans
Lionsgate ended weeks of speculation by officially announcing the stars of the Sunrise on the Reaping movie on April 23. Rising actor Joseph Zada will play young Haymitch Abernathy, while Gossip Girl alum Whitney Peak takes on the role of Lenore Dove.
While reactions were mixed — with many fans previously hoping for bigger names like Charlie Plummer or Drew Starkey — the casting of lesser-known Zada might be exactly what this new take needs. Much like Tom Blyth in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Zada has the chance to redefine a complex character with fresh energy and no prior expectations.
Whitney Peak’s portrayal of Lenore has also generated discussion. Book readers originally envisioned Lenore as a redhead, but Collins never defined her race. Interestingly, Peak bears a striking resemblance to Rachel Zegler, who played Lucy Gray Baird — a connection that fans believe is more than coincidence, considering the book hints at a family link between Lenore and Lucy.
Sunrise on the Reaping movie expands the lore
Lenore Dove’s backstory — from her Covey roots to her subtle bond with Katniss’ father — is ripe for deeper exploration in the film. Her mysterious lineage, possibly connected to Maude Ivory or even Lucy Gray herself, opens the door to long-awaited answers about Lucy’s fate after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.
And while Peak may not have been everyone’s first choice, her past roles suggest she can capture Lenore’s quiet strength and inner fire. If anything, her casting shows that the franchise is still committed to meaningful character work and powerful performances over celebrity status.
For those still feeling uncertain, it’s worth remembering how early doubts surrounded the original cast. Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and even Woody Harrelson faced skepticism — but ultimately proved to be perfect fits. Similarly, Catching Fire fans initially questioned the casting of Sam Claflin as Finnick. Today, it’s hard to picture anyone else in those roles.
These first two casting reveals are only the beginning. There’s still plenty to come: middle-aged Snow, younger versions of Effie and Plutarch, and potentially even some unexpected cameos in the epilogue.
As Haymitch once told Katniss and Peeta, “these Games are going to be different.” And with the Sunrise on the Reaping movie, it looks like the odds are in our favor once again.
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Source: www.people.com
