An original star from theHunger Gamesmovies is interested in returning forSunrise on the Reaping. Released on July 25, 2025, the book serves as a prequel to the original movies, primarily following District 12 tribute Haymitch Abernathy through the Second Quarter Quell. Lionsgate is planning torelease a theatrical adaptation on August 16, 2025.
Haymitch, who wasplayed by Woody Harrelsonin the original movies, is best known as a bitter and spiteful old man whostruggles to connect with the younger tributesearly on. After Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) enter the arena, however, he quickly comes to their defense.
This will not be the firstHunger Gamesfollow-up, as it comes on the tail of another prequel,The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Now, a few years later, the most in-demand story is finally coming to theaters, showcasing Haymitch’s deadly games and how he ultimately won against 47 other tributes.
An Original Star Considers Returning To The Hunger Games
While he has not starred in the franchise sinceThe Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2(2015), Josh Hutcherson remains an iconic face of the franchise. Peeta Mellark served asKatniss' primary love interestand as one of the rare District 12 victors of the Hunger Games themselves, despite lacking many of the skills needed to survive alone.
Since the original movies ended,Hutcherson has starred in a variety of films, includingFive Nights at Freddy’s(2023),The Beekeeper(2024), and the upcomingFive Nights at Freddy’s 2(2025). He has also appeared on the small screen inFuture ManandUltra Man. Now, however, he is expressingsome interest in reappearing in his breakout role.
In an interview withBrit + Co,Hutcherson hinted that he could return for the prequel. While he admits thathe knows nothing about the upcoming prequel, he did express that he would love to return to reprise his role as Peeta, as he continues to love the franchise. Check out his full quote below:
“Yeah, no, that’d be cool. No, I know nothing in that world right now.Hunger Gamesis amazing, and I’ve loved it for many years and I will love it forever.”
Our Take On Hutcherson Reprising His Role
It would be interesting to see Hutcherson reappearing in a cameo, especially if it means that Lawrence also reprises her role. It would also align with the book, asSunrise on the ReapingendswithHaymitch relating his story to Peeta and Katniss directly. The movie would need to feature them both to truly make sense as a faithful adaptation.
Besides, this could be the lastHunger Gamesmovie, asCollins has not announced another prequel. While another could be in development, it would be wise to end the series by looping back to its beginning and reintroducing Katniss and Peeta, especially if it means getting insight into their lives after the movies ended.
