WithThe Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reapingset to hit theaters onNovember 20, 2026, fans have been buzzing about whether any familiar faces from the original franchise might return — especiallyJosh Hutcherson, who portrayedPeeta Mellarkacross all four films in theblockbuster YA adaptation. Now, Hutcherson is weighing in. Speaking toBrit + Co, the actor finally broke his silence about possibly returning to the world of Panem.
“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.”
While Hutcherson hasn’t been approached to appear inSunrise on the Reaping, the door isn’t closed, especially considering Peeta and Katniss do make a brief appearance in the book. Suzanne Collins’ newest installment takes place24 yearsbefore the 74th Hunger Games,focusing on a youngHaymitch Abernathyduring his deadly run through the arena. But the novel is framed by scenes ofa grown Katniss and Peetalistening to Haymitch recount his story — which means a cameo isn’t out of the question.
And Hutcherson has made his enthusiasm clear in the past. “I would happily play Peeta again,” he toldaudiences at Dream It Conin Paris years earlier. “I think Peeta’s an incredible person to get to bring to life. I’m curious to know what happens between when they have their family and when the story ends… But I’m down. If you can talk to Suzanne Collins and tell her to write a book, I’m in. Sign me up.”
Who Else Is in ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’?
Whether or not he gets the call, the film already boasts a stacked cast.Sunrise on the ReapingstarsJoseph Zadaas Haymitch,Whitney Peakas Lenore Dove Baird,Elle Fanningas Effie Trinket,Jesse Plemonsas Plutarch Heavensbee,McKenna Graceas Maysilee Donner,Kieran Culkinas Caesar Flickerman,Maya Hawkeas Wiress,Billy Porteras Magno Stift,Lili Tayloras Mags, andRalph Fiennesas President Snow.
Directed byFrancis Lawrence, who returns after helming four previous entries, the film marks the second prequel in the franchise, following 2023’sThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.But from Hutcherson’s comments, it sounds like he may not be the only one to return to the world of Panem, and Hutcherson will be the next to volunteer as tribute.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reapinghits theaters worldwide onNovember 20, 2026.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
