The studio has tapped rising star Joseph Zada to take on the pivotal role of a young Haymitch Abernathy, the sardonic but ultimately caring mentor made iconic by Woody Harrelson in the original franchise.
Joining him is the talented Whitney Peak, who will bring to life Lenore Dove Baird, a significant figure in Haymitch’s formative years and a character deeply entwined with the early emotional landscape of Panem.
The casting of these key roles has been a hot topic, generating considerable buzz and fierce competition among young actors.
Erin Westerman, Co-President of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, lauded the choices, stating that Zada and Peak embody the spirit of the franchise’s tradition of launching exceptional young talent.
She emphasized their “heart, depth, and fire,” highlighting the emotional resonance they brought to the audition process for these beloved characters. The focus on Haymitch’s origin story, a long-awaited narrative for fans, underscores the significance of Zada’s portrayal. Westerman also noted the crucial role of Lenore Dove in shaping Haymitch’s past, hinting at a poignant exploration of their relationship within the brutal world of Panem.Producer Nina Jacobson of Color Force echoed this sentiment, praising the exhaustive search led by Deb Zane and Dylan Jury to find the perfect young Haymitch. She lauded Zada’s dedication and captivating performance.
Peak’s portrayal of Lenore Dove similarly impressed, with Jacobson describing their pairing as a “magical casting moment.”
Based on Suzanne Collins’ compelling prequel novel, “Sunrise on the Reaping” journeys back 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s Games, commencing on the fateful morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, the Second Quarter Quell.
The narrative will center on a 16-year-old Haymitch, portrayed as a sharp and resourceful District 12 tribute thrust into a particularly deadly edition of the Games – one featuring a shocking twist of double the tributes, pitting 48 children against each other in the arena.
Returning to helm this new chapter is Francis Lawrence, who previously directed multiple installments in the original “Hunger Games” saga, ensuring a degree of stylistic continuity.
The screenplay is penned by Billy Ray. Producers Jacobson and Brad Simpson of Color Force will once again guide the project, with Cameron MacConomy serving as executive producer.
Lionsgate’s Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien are overseeing production, with Robert Melnik handling the deal negotiations.
Zada and Peak arrive in Panem with impressive burgeoning careers. Zada currently leads the Australian series “Invisible Boys” and is set to star in Prime Video’s upcoming series “We Were Liars.”
He also recently wrapped production on Zoe Kazan’s Netflix series “East of Eden,” sharing the screen with prominent actors. Peak, known for her roles in the “Gossip Girl” reboot and “Hocus Pocus 2,” has a busy slate ahead, including leading roles in the Sony thriller “Shiver” and Amazon MGM’s “4 Kids Walk into a Bank.”
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