New Hunger Games Prequel Trailer Reveals Haymitch's Origin Story

Lionsgate has released a new trailer for "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping," the upcoming prequel film set to arrive in theaters on November 20, 2026. The footage provides the first detailed look at the adaptation of Suzanne Collins's 2025 novel, which explores the origin story of Haymitch Abernathy, the mentor to Katniss Everdeen in the original saga. The film is set 24 years before the events of the first "Hunger Games" story, beginning on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. This special edition of the games features twice the usual number of tributes, with four children reaped from each district. The story follows a 16-year-old Haymitch, portrayed by Joseph Zada, as he is thrust into the deadly arena. According to the official synopsis, Haymitch forms an unlikely alliance with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner, played by Mckenna Grace, and joins a coalition determined to challenge the Capitol's control under President Snow. As the competition unfolds, Haymitch risks everything to take down the Games from within the arena, setting in motion the rebellion that will change Panem forever.