“Hunger Games” fans, rejoice! The arena is calling once again and this time, it brings with it the unexpected return of two faces who helped define the very heart of the franchise.
Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are officially returning to the “Hunger Games” universe, marking their first appearance in the franchise since 2015’s “Mockingjay — Part 2”. The pair, best known for bringing Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark to life, will feature in “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping”, the upcoming film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ latest novel.
Lionsgate has confirmed that the film is slated for release on 20th November 2026, with Francis Lawrence returning to direct. As the filmmaker behind most of the original series, his involvement maintains continuity for a franchise that has earned more than US$3.3 billion worldwide. Set decades before Katniss’ revolution, the new instalment promises a blend of nostalgia and renewed narrative depth.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” takes place on the morning of the 50th Hunger Games reaping, 24 years before the first book. Acting as a successor to “The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” (2023), the film continues to explore Panem’s dark history. While Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson’s roles are expected to be brief, their return offers a meaningful bridge between the prequel and the beloved original films.
The ensemble cast brings together an impressive mix of established and rising talent, with Ralph Fiennes as President Snow and Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee. Kelvin Harrison Jr. reprises his role as Beetee Latier, joined by Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman and Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, while Joseph Zada, Glenn Close, Mckenna Grace, Maya Hawke and Whitney Peak round out the core line-up.
Billy Ray adapts Suzanne Collins’ book for the screen, with Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson producing for Color Force and Cameron MacConomy serving as executive producer. As Jennifer celebrates a recent Golden Globe nomination for “Die My Love” and Josh leads “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2”, anticipation continues to grow for their return to the franchise. With legacy characters, returning creatives and a compelling new storyline, “Sunrise on the Reaping” is poised to reignite excitement across the fandom.
Watch the teaser here:
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
