Joseph Zada stars in Hunger Games prequel Sunrise on the Reaping

Joseph Zada will portray a young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping. The film, which is set approximately 25 years before the original series, explores the backstory of the character previously played by Woody Harrelson.

Early reactions to Zada’s performance highlight his ability to create a distinct personality for the 16-year-old character through specific voice and body language without merely imitating Harrelson. The film features a notable cast, including Elle Fanning, Ralph Fiennes, and Glenn Close.

To promote the release, UCI Cinemas has announced several fan events, including cosplay appearances, quizzes, and exclusive collectible posters. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on November 19, 2026, including premium formats such as IMAX.