As excitement builds up for the next chapter in the Hunger Games franchise, rumors surrounding the cast of Sunrise on the Reaping are already spreading across social media.
Just days after the first teaser for Sunrise on the Reaping dropped, casting rumors for the highly anticipated Hunger Games prequel emerge. While Lionsgate has yet to officially confirm any cast members, several big names are being thrown in the arena, and if the rumors are true, this prequel might just have a very impressive lineup.
Charlie Plummer As Young Haymitch
One of the strongest rumors right now is that Charlie Plummer is in talks to portray the 16-year-old version of Haymitch Abernathy. Known for Looking for Alaska and Lean on Pete, Charlie Plummer has that soft-yet-intense energy that fans think could match the emotionally complex character. While some question whether he looks young enough for the role, others point out that his acting chops might be more important than his age and that the protagonists of the previous Hunger Games movies, such as Jennifer Lawrence and Rachel Zegler, were in the same age range when they were cast.
Ralph Fiennes As President Snow
This one would be truly iconic: Ralph Fiennes, the man who brought Voldemort to life, is rumored to be playing a middle-aged Coriolanus Snow. We already know that Fiennes can embody pure evil like no other, and going from He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named to the evil, manipulative ruler of Panem feels like a full-circle villain moment. Some fans, however, have voiced hope that Kiefer Sutherland — son of the original president Snow actor, Donald Sutherland, might take on the role insted. Still, if Ralph Fiennes would be cast, that'd be a casting choice that instantly elevates the stakes for the prequel.
put them side by side and i can totally see it https://t.co/VCucuzfjum pic.twitter.com/GPgOIIrOsG
— tati sotr spoilers (@everdeenfilms) April 4, 2025
Jesse Plemons As A Young Plutarch Heavensbee
Another name making the rounds is Jesse Plemons, rumored to be taking on the role of a younger Plutarch Heavensbee. Originally portrayed by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman in the original trilogy, Plutarch is one of the franchise’s most layered characters – a Capitol insider who secretly joins the rebellion. Plemons, who has built a reputation for playing complex, morally gray figures in projects like The Power of the Dog, Fargo, and Black Mirror, feels like a natural fit.
Kieran Culkin As Ceaser Flickerman
Shortly after his first Oscar win, Succession star Kieran Culkin is reportedly considered for a young Ceaser Flickerman. With his chaotic charm, sharp timing, and emotional unpredictability, he could bring an entirely new energy to the character. The choice has definitely surprised fans – but many can actually see it working. It’s not a name people had in mind, but it’s one that’s quickly gaining traction online.
the casting director for sunrise on the reaping securing ralph fiennes president snow and kieran culkin caesar flickerman pic.twitter.com/Sg3oO3JeqV
— zoe rose bryant (@zoerosebryant) April 5, 2025
Until Lionsgate makes any official announcements, this all remains speculation – but if even half of these casting rumors are true, Panem is in for a legendary return.
What do you think about the casting rumors? Let us know in the comments!