Woody Harrelson’s Return Teased in Prequel Focused on Haymitch Abernathy’s Games
Lionsgate has officially unveiled the first teaser for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a highly anticipated prequel exploring the harrowing journey of a young Haymitch Abernathy in the 50th Hunger Games. The teaser, revealed at CinemaCon 2025, provides a glimpse into the new arena and hints at a possible return of Woody Harrelson to the franchise.
A Fiery Arena and a Mysterious Symbol
The teaser showcases a dramatic transformation: a volcanic eruption morphs into a snake, a striking nod to The Hunger Games symbolism. Fans will recognize the snake motif from The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. The previous prequel focused on Coriolanus Snow’s early years. As the fire subsides, the snake intertwines with a songbird, forming the design of Haymitch’s iconic flint striker necklace—a gift from his girlfriend, Lenore Dove, a member of the Covey, a nomadic musical group with ties to Lucy Gray Baird.
Woody Harrelson’s Voice Sparks Cameo Speculation
One of the biggest surprises in the teaser is a voice-over by Woody Harrelson, who originally portrayed Haymitch Abernathy in The Hunger Games franchise. Harrelson’s voice ominously states, “I think these games are going to be different.”
While Sunrise on the Reaping primarily follows a younger Haymitch, reports suggest an epilogue featuring the older version of the character alongside Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson), potentially paving the way for their cameos.
Forty-eight tributes. One victor.
— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) April 1, 2025
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/pGKnux44L0
Francis Lawrence Returns to Direct
Francis Lawrence, the director behind four previous Hunger Games films, returns to helm the adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ latest novel. Joining him are longtime franchise producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, with Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Billy Ray (Captain Phillips) penning the script.
At CinemaCon, Lawrence teased fans with what to expect from the new film. “We have an iconic character from the series, someone who’s really easy to empathize with,” he said. “The arena is going to be spectacular, and this film is a return to the kind of storytelling that made this series so beloved.”
Production and Release Date
Filming for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set to begin in July 2025, with an official release date slated for November 20, 2026.
For more updates on The Hunger Games franchise, visit Lionsgate’s official website or follow CinemaCon coverage.