Joseph Zada has been cast as a young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel “Sunrise on the Reaping,” which explores the origin of the character originally played by Woody Harrelson. Alongside Zada, Whitney Peak will portray Haymitch’s girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird. The film, set to release on November 20, 2026, takes place during the 50th Hunger Games, focusing on events leading to Haymitch’s mentorship of Katniss Everdeen. Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, highlighted the significance of Haymitch and Lenore’s relationship in the story. The prequel is based on a recently published novel that has already sold 1.5 million copies in its first week.
