With Suzanne Collins’ new prequel Sunrise on the Reaping expanding The Hunger Games universe, fans are buzzing over who will bring young Haymitch Abernathy to life on screen.
According to Film Updates, actor Charlie Plummer is currently in talks to play the iconic character in the upcoming film adaptation.
The prequel focuses on the 50th Hunger Games, following District 12’s Haymitch as a teenage tribute and eventual victor. The story offers deeper insight into the trauma that shaped him into the cynical mentor fans first met in the original trilogy. Woody Harrelson played the older Haymitch in the original films.
Fans have responded positively to the rumored casting, noting Plummer’s age (25) and his physical resemblance to Harrelson. Plummer is best known for roles in Looking for Alaska, Moonfall, and the upcoming thriller The Long Walk.
Additional casting rumors have also surfaced. Kieran Culkin is reportedly in talks to play Caesar Flickerman, while Emma Thompson is being considered for Drusilla Sickle, District 12’s Capitol escort. Elle Fanning has reportedly been offered the role of a young Effie Trinket, and Ralph Fiennes may take on the role of an older President Snow.
Production for Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled to begin in July 2025, with Lionsgate yet to confirm the cast officially. As fans eagerly await confirmation, the prequel’s casting news continues to fuel excitement for the next chapter in the Hunger Games saga.
