The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Teaser Reveals Young Haymitch

Lionsgate has released the first teaser for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. The footage introduces Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy. The film is scheduled for a global release on November 20, 2026.

This prequel returns to the dystopian world of Panem a generation before Katniss Everdeen. It focuses on the 50th Hunger Games, a brutal event known as the Second Quarter Quell.

First Look at the Second Quarter Quell

The newly released teaser trailer shows Haymitch Abernathy on the morning of the reaping. Joseph Zada’s character is seen preparing for the deadly competition. He states, “I think these games are gonna be different,” hinting at the unique challenges ahead.

This film adapts Suzanne Collins’ latest bestselling novel. According to reports from industry sources like Reuters, the story explores Haymitch’s original victory. His win set the stage for his later role as a mentor in the original series.

Expanding a Blockbuster Franchise

Director Francis Lawrence returns to helm this new chapter. The production brings back a key creative team from the previous films. This ensures continuity with the beloved franchise that grossed over $3.4 billion worldwide.

The star-studded cast adds major firepower to the prequel. Ralph Fiennes reprises his role as the ruthless President Snow. They are joined by Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, and Elle Fanning in significant new roles.

The first footage for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping has successfully reignited fan excitement. This deep dive into Haymitch’s past promises to add new layers to the saga’s rich history. The 2026 release is already one of the most anticipated cinematic events.

Info at your fingertips

When does The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping come out?

The film is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. This gives fans a full year to anticipate the next chapter. The teaser trailer arrived exactly one year ahead of the premiere.

Who is playing young Haymitch Abernathy?

Joseph Zada portrays a young Haymitch Abernathy in the new film. The character was originally played by Woody Harrelson in the first movie series. Zada’s performance will show Haymitch’s experience as a tribute in the 50th Games.

Is this a direct sequel to The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes?

No, this story takes place after the Coriolanus Snow origin story. It focuses on the 50th Hunger Games, where Haymitch Abernathy was a victor. This timeline places it decades before Katniss Everdeen enters the arena.

Who is directing Sunrise on the Reaping?

Francis Lawrence is back as director for this new installment. He previously directed several films in the original Hunger Games series. The screenplay is being adapted by writer Billy Ray.

What book is the new movie based on?

The film adapts Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel, *Sunrise on the Reaping*. The book returns readers to Panem on the morning of the 50th Games’ reaping. It continues her exploration of the franchise’s deep history.