The Hunger Games franchise continues to expand with new stories set in the world of Panem. Following the release of "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," author Suzanne Collins has released a new prequel novel, "Sunrise on the Reaping."
"Sunrise on the Reaping" revisits the 50th Annual Hunger Games, twenty-four years before the events of the original series. The story focuses on a young Haymitch Abernathy. A film adaptation of the new book is scheduled for release in theaters on November 20, 2026.
The release of "Sunrise on the Reaping," and the film that will follow, has prompted discussion among fans about which Hunger Games characters could be the subject of future prequel books or films.
One character frequently mentioned is Plutarch Heavensbee. First introduced in "Catching Fire," Plutarch eventually proves instrumental in the rebellion against the Capitol. The character makes an appearance in "Sunrise on the Reaping" as a younger Plutarch Heavensbee, shown to be plotting against the Capitol decades before the main trilogy.
Jesse Plemons has been cast as a Jesse Plemons as a young Plutarch Heavensbee in the "Sunrise on the Reaping" film adaptation. Philip Seymour Hoffman portrayed the character in the original films.
Other characters fans express interest in seeing explored include Finnick Odair, Johanna Mason, Beetee Latier, and Annie Cresta. Actor Sam Claflin, who played Finnick Odair in the films, recently confirmed he Sam Claflin confirmed he recently met with director Francis Lawrence, fueling speculation about a potential Finnick prequel.
Backstories for characters like Enobaria, Cashmere and Gloss, and Effie Trinket are also subjects of fan discussion. Additionally, some fans wish to see more about the First Quarter Quell or learn more about President Alma Coin.
Many fans read the Sunrise on the Reaping novel upon its release and anticipate the upcoming film adaptation. What we know about the Sunrise on the Reaping movie remains limited, but casting is underway.
Sam Claflin commented on the prequel novels, stating, "I thought it was a fresh take with a fresh generation. They did a wonderful job. I understand the ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ book is even better."
