Sunrise on the Reaping” Cast: “GOATED CASTING!

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Actress Rachel Zegler, who starred in “The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” has expressed her feelings about the recent castings for Lionsgate’s upcoming prequel, titled “Sunrise on the Reaping“. In the 2023 film, Zegler will play Lucy Gray Baird, the sole female tribute from District 12 known to have won the Hunger Games before Katniss Everdeen’s groundbreaking victory.

In the last week, it was officially announced that Whitney Peak, known for her role in Gossip Girl, will take on the character of Lenore Dove Baird in the forthcoming movie Sunrise on the Reaping. Meanwhile, Jesse Plemons, who has been nominated for an Oscar, has agreed to play a young character. On social media, Zegler swiftly expressed her approval for Peak and Plemons. Via an Instagram story, Zegler tagged Peak and penned “I know she’s going to make the Baird name proud,” referencing Lucy’s relationship with Lenore. Furthermore, Zegler also endorsed Plemons’ casting by saying it was a “GOATED (greatest of all time) casting.

In Suzanne Collins’ fresh Hunger Games prequel novel, Lenore emerges as Haymitch Abernathy’s girlfriend, a character many fans assumed to be Lucy’s niece. Before assuming his role as the Head Gamemaker in the 75th Hunger Games, Plutarch worked as a young cameraman for the Capitol, tasked with recording the tributes of the Second Quarter Quell. In the movie series, Plutarch was portrayed by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, who featured in Catching Fire (2013), Mockingjay Part 1 (2014), and Mockingjay Part 2. The latter marked his final screen performance, taking place after his tragic demise in 2014 at the age of 46.

What Do We Know About Sunrise on the Reaping?

As a passionate film enthusiast, I eagerly anticipate diving back into the world of Panem with “Sunrise on the Reaping,” to be helmed by franchise director Francis Lawrence and penned by Billy Ray. This time around, we’ll follow a young Haymitch Abernathy, unexpectedly thrust into the role as one of District 12’s tributes. Intriguingly, “Invisible Boys” star will portray the iconic character, previously brought to life by Woody Harrelson in the original films – marking this actor’s first significant lead role in a major motion picture. Joining him on-screen will be Zada, Peak, and Plemons, with Emmy nominee stepping into the shoes of Maysilee Donner, the original owner of Katniss’ distinctive Mockingjay pin. Fans of high-stakes franchises may recognize Grace from her previous appearances in “Captain Marvel” and the recent “Ghostbusters” films.

In the synopsis of the novel, it is stated that as the sun rises for the 50th anniversary of the Hunger Games, apprehension sweeps across the districts of Panem. This year, in recognition of the Quarter Quell, double the number of tributes will be selected from their homes. In District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is doing his best to avoid dwelling on his prospects. His only desire is to survive the day and be with the girl he adores. However, when Haymitch’s name is announced, it feels as if all his dreams shatter. He is forcibly separated from his family and his beloved, transported to the Capitol alongside the three other District 12 tributes: a close friend, a compulsive gambler, and the most arrogant girl in town. As the Games commence, Haymitch recognizes that he has been set up to fail. Yet, there is something within him that yearns to battle… And should this struggle echo far beyond the lethal arena.

Sunrise on the Reaping will arrive in theaters on Nov. 20, 2026.

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2025-04-27 18:06