Key Highlights
- Maya Hawke teases Jennifer Lawrence’s return to the Hunger Games franchise.
- Hawke confirmed Lawrence’s appearance in “Sunrise on the Reaping” during an interview with Jimmy Fallon.
- The prequel film will star Hawke as Wiress, while Lawrence will reprise her role as Katniss Everdeen.
- Lawrence’s performance significantly influenced Hawke’s career choice to become an actress.
Jennifer Lawrence to Return in ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’
Actress Maya Hawke recently teased Jennifer Lawrence’s return to the iconic Hunger Games franchise during her appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” During the conversation, Hawke confirmed that Lawrence will star as Katniss Everdeen in the upcoming prequel film titled “Sunrise on the Reaping.”
According to Hawke, Lawrence’s performance in the first four Hunger Games movies played a crucial role in her decision to pursue an acting career. Speaking about her admiration for Lawrence, she shared, “Jennifer Lawrence’s performance in the first four movies is a big part of the reason why I want to be an actor. She’s amazing.”
Confirmed Appearances and Cast Details
Hawke, who will star as Wiress in “Sunrise on the Reaping,” made her comments during an interview with Jimmy Fallon on January 8, 2026. During the conversation, she recounted how she saw Lawrence’s new film “Die My Love” while filming the prequel. She noted, “I’m just such a big fan of hers, and so to be anywhere near that franchise means the world to me.”
During the interview, Fallon asked Hawke if they were allowed to say that Lawrence would be returning to the Hunger Games series, to which Hawke nodded affirmatively. The host quipped, “They know now!” confirming the news.
Plot and Cast Details of “Sunrise on the Reaping”
“Sunrise on the Reaping” is an adaptation from author Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name. The film follows Haymitch Abernathy, played by We Were Liars star Joseph Zada, as he competes in the 50th Hunger Games some 24 years before the events of the first movie. While specific details about Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson’s roles are still under wraps, those who have read the novel know that Katniss and Peeta will appear with Haymitch in an epilogue chapter.
Josh Hutcherson addressed the possibility of making more Hunger Games movies during an interview with Variety in November.
He expressed his willingness to return to the franchise, stating, “I would love to be back on set with Francis, with Jen, with Liam, with Woody. It would not take any convincing at all. I’d be there in a heartbeat.”
Hawke also shared her experience working with Glenn Close, who stars as Drusilla Sickle in the film.
She described it as “the most fun experience of my life,” recounting how they filmed on an ominous airport tarmac in Germany during cold weather conditions. Hawke joked about Close’s professionalism, saying, “She’s a pro.”
Upcoming Release and Box Office Potential
“Sunrise on the Reaping” is set to open in theaters on November 20, 2026. The film promises to be a significant event for fans of the Hunger Games series, with Lawrence’s return drawing much anticipation. Industry experts predict that her involvement could boost the film’s box office performance, given the franchise’s established fan base.
With both Hawke and Lawrence set to star in the prequel, the movie is expected to generate significant buzz among fans of the Hunger Games universe.
The combination of new and old characters will likely appeal to a wide audience, ensuring that the film remains relevant in the highly competitive entertainment landscape.
As “Sunrise on the Reaping” prepares for its release, fans eagerly await more details about the plot and casting. With the confirmed return of Jennifer Lawrence, the anticipation is palpable, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling addition to the Hunger Games franchise.
