Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson return to ‘Hunger Games’ in new prequel adventure

In a major delight for The Hunger Games fans, original stars Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are officially set to return to the franchise. The actors, known for their roles as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark , will appear in the upcoming prequel film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping .

The new instalment, releasing on 20 November 2026 , is based on Suzanne Collins’ latest novel and revisits Panem decades before Katniss first entered the arena. The story centres on the 50th Hunger Games , the Second Quarter Quell , focusing on young Haymitch Abernathy . Rising actor Joseph Zada will portray the teenage Haymitch, originally played by Woody Harrelson .

While Lawrence and Hutcherson’s return is confirmed, details of their roles remain under wraps , with expectations of a limited but significant appearance.

The film features a strong ensemble, including Ralph Fiennes as President Snow, Jesse Plemons , Kelvin Harrison Jr. , Kieran Culkin , and Elle Fanning . Actors Glenn Close , McKenna Grace , Maya Hawke , and Whitney Peak also join the cast.

Directed by Francis Lawrence , the film marks a major comeback for the franchise, which has already earned USD 3.3 billion worldwide. The prequel is set to reignite global excitement and bring audiences back into the gripping world of Panem.