Kieran Culkin Joins Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Exciting news for fans of Panem! Kieran Culkin, known for his role in Succession, is joining Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping as a younger version of the iconic Caesar Flickerman.
This latest casting announcement adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming film, based on Suzanne Collins' latest book. But what exactly will Culkin bring to the role of a younger Caesar Flickerman?
Culkin will portray the flamboyant television host, a character previously brought to life by Stanley Tucci in the original Hunger Games films. Jason Schwartzman also played Lucretius "Lucky" Flickerman in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.
Sunrise on the Reaping is set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen's story, focusing on a teenage Haymitch Abernathy during the Second Quarter Quell. This iteration of the Games is particularly brutal, featuring double the tributes: 48 children instead of the usual 24. What challenges will Haymitch face?
The Cast of Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
The cast of Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is shaping up to be truly impressive. Joseph Zada will play Haymitch Abernathy. Several other actors are joining Culkin and Zada to bring this story to life.
- Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s girlfriend
- Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner
- Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee
- Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee
- Maya Hawke as Wiress
- Lili Taylor as Mags
- Ben Wang as Wyatt Callow
- Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket
- Ralph Fiennes as a younger President Snow
Francis Lawrence returns as director, with a script by Billy Ray. Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson are producing under the Color Force banner, with Cameron MacConomy as executive producer. Lionsgate is overseeing the project, with Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien at the helm.
The film is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Mark your calendars!
Why Kieran Culkin is Perfect for Caesar Flickerman
Culkin's casting is particularly intriguing given his background. Known for his sharp wit and sardonic humor as Roman Roy in Succession, Culkin is a compelling choice to embody a younger, perhaps more unrestrained version of Caesar Flickerman. What kind of energy will he bring to the role?
This role marks Culkin’s first major studio franchise appearance since his Oscar-winning performance in A Real Pain. He is also currently starring in Glengarry Glen Ross on Broadway alongside Bob Odenkirk and Bill Burr.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping promises to be a thrilling addition to the franchise, and the addition of Kieran Culkin only heightens the anticipation. Be sure to catch it in theaters November 20, 2026!