Key Highlights
- Maya Hawke teases Jennifer Lawrence’s return to the Hunger Games franchise.
- Hawke confirmed Lawrence will appear in “Sunrise on the Reaping.”
- The film follows Haymitch Abernathy 24 years before the first movie.
- Lawrence praised for her performances by Hawke, who admires her as an actor.
Renewed Fan Passion: Jennifer Lawrence’s Return to Hunger Games
In a candid conversation with The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, actress Maya Hawke shared her excitement about the upcoming prequel film “Sunrise on the Reaping.” The 27-year-old, best known for her role in Stranger Things, expressed deep admiration for Jennifer Lawrence’s acting prowess. “Jennifer Lawrence’s performance in the first four movies is a big part of the reason why I want to be an actor,” Hawke said, emphasizing the impact Lawrence had on her career.
Hawke will star as Wiress in the film and confirmed that Jennifer Lawrence would reprise her role as Katniss Everdeen. The prequel is set some 24 years before the original events of “The Hunger Games,” focusing on Haymitch Abernathy, played by Joseph Zada.
Hawke’s Journey and Inspiration
During her appearance, Hawke recounted watching Lawrence’s new film Die My Love in Germany while filming “Sunrise on the Reaping.” “I’m just such a big fan of hers,” she said, highlighting how Lawrence’s career has inspired her. “She actually came back, right?” Fallon asked, to which Hawke nodded and responded, “We’re allowed to say that? People know?”
Prequel Details and Cast
The film, adapted from author Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name, will follow Haymitch Abernathy as he competes in the 50th Hunger Games. Other cast members include Woody Harrelson as Haymitch and Liam Hemsworth as Finnick Odair, who was played by The Hunger Games actor Josh Hutcherson.
Josh Hutcherson himself has expressed interest in returning to the franchise. In an interview with Variety, Hutcherson said, “I would love to be back on set with Francis, with Jen, with Liam, with Woody.” He added, “It would not take any convincing at all.
I’d be there in a heartbeat.” While specifics of his role are under wraps, Hutcherson hinted that he will reprise his role as Peeta Mellark.
Sunrise on the Reaping opens in theaters on November 20, 2026, marking an exciting return to the iconic Hunger Games universe. The film promises to bring back familiar faces and introduce new characters, continuing the legacy of one of Hollywood’s most beloved franchises.
The cast and crew of “Sunrise on the Reaping” are gearing up for a successful release, with fans eagerly awaiting this cinematic journey into the origins of the Hunger Games. As the prequel sets the stage for future installments, it promises to captivate audiences once again.