“He’s supposed to be a teenager”: Jennifer Lawrence’s Hunger Games Prequel Has Reportedly Found Woody Harrelson’s Replacement But That Doesn’t Impress Fans
- The new 'Hunger Games' prequel, 'Sunrise on the Reaping,' is set to be released in 2026.
- Rumors suggest Mike Faist might play young Haymitch Abernathy in the prequel movie.
- However, fans aren't buying the idea of him and are suggesting other actors for the role.
The Hunger Games franchise is back in the spotlight with its new movie Sunrise on the Reaping. Set 24 years before the original Hunger Games, Sunrise on the Reaping will focus on the dramatic 50th Hunger Games. This was the year a 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy clinched victory.
While Suzanne Collins, the writer of The Hunger Games, hasn’t confirmed whether Haymitch will be the main character, rumors have been swirling that Mike Faist might star in the film. But is there any truth to these reports?
While the exact plot remains a closely guarded secret, one thing is for sure: Haymitch’s younger days are are going to be front and center. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling prequel—Haymitch-style!
Here’s the juicy twist: whispers are flying that Mike Faist, famous for his roles in West Side Story and Challengers, could be stepping into the shoes of young Haymitch. Yes, you heard that right—our future Haymitch could be from Faist’s future! Now, Faist definitely has the acting chops to make Haymitch’s past pop, but not everyone’s raising their bows in excitement.
Fans Debate Mike Faist’s Potential Role as Young Haymitch
The buzz started with a tweet from @21metgala, which claimed Mike Faist was “set to star” in the upcoming film, Sunrise on the Reaping. This news spread faster than a fire in the Capitol, causing fans to wonder if Faist was indeed the chosen one.
However, despite the excitement, nothing is confirmed yet. The actor might not even know he’s a part of this Hunger Games saga. Faist has been making waves with his stage performances and recent screen roles, so it’s no surprise that casting rumors have him as a top pick for Sunrise on the Reaping.
According to Production Weekly, the 32-year-old is mentioned as a potential male lead in the film. However, the term ‘mentioned’ is key here—it doesn’t mean the role is his just yet. Faist is quite a bit older than the teenage Haymitch Abernathy, so he might be vying for a different part altogether (yep, it could be).
The casting rumors are really cranking up the heat! Some fans are all in a tizzy at the thought of Faist taking on a younger Haymitch, while others are scratching their heads, questioning if he’s the right fit for the role. Check out some fan reactions:
Is Faist going to be the next big thing in the arena, or just another face in the casting crowd? Right now, Lionsgate is keeping their lips sealed tighter than ever.
Other Contenders for Young Haymitch Abernathy
The search for the perfect actor to play a young Haymitch Abernathy is still underway, and fans have been throwing out a variety of names. While Mike Faist’s name has been tossed around, other actors like Drew Starkey from Outer Banks, Tom Glynn-Carney from House of the Dragon, and Louis Hofmann from Dark have also been suggested.
The only hiccup? These actors are all older than the 16-year-old Haymitch we’re looking for. Looks like finding the right age for this role is turning into quite the ‘Hunger Games’! Glynn-Carney, for instance, is clearly pumped about the chance to play Haymitch. He even joked about how he’s ready to fight for his life in the Hunger Games—talk about getting into character early! He told Vestal:
I’m incredibly flattered that people would like to see me on screen again. If all goes well, I’ll fight for my life in the Hunger Games!
Walker Scobell, famous for his role in Percy Jackson, has also been floated as a candidate on X, though he might be seen as a bit green for such a major part. With no official casting news yet, fans are hoping the casting team will find the ideal young Haymitch who checks both the age and talent boxes.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026.
