**Glenn Close and Billy Porter Cast in Anticipated “Hunger Games” Prequel: “Sunrise On The Reaping”**
Excitement is building in the entertainment world as Oscar-nominated star Glenn Close and Emmy Award-winner Billy Porter have been confirmed to headline the upcoming “Hunger Games” film, titled “Sunrise On The Reaping.” Set to premiere in cinemas worldwide on 20 November 2026, this latest addition will mark the sixth cinematic instalment in the ever-popular fantasy franchise based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novels.
Close, now 78, is slated to portray Drusilla Sickle, an escort integral to the Games, while Porter, 55, will bring to life Magno Stift, a leading stylist and Drusilla’s on-screen husband. Their involvement marks a significant addition to the impressive roster of talent that has defined the “Hunger Games” universe. Both actors boast acclaimed résumés: Close is fondly remembered for her performances in films such as “Fatal Attraction,” “Dangerous Liaisons,” and notably as Cruella de Vil in Disney’s “101 Dalmatians.” Porter, meanwhile, continues to build on his reputation as a trailblazer, with notable roles on Broadway in “Kinky Boots” and hit television series such as “Pose.”
The prequel follows on the heels of the fifth book in Collins’ “Hunger Games” series, which was released in March 2025. Notably, the forthcoming film will explore the events leading up to the original trilogy, enriching the backstory of the fictional nation of Panem and its infamous annual Games. Esteemed Hollywood actor Ralph Fiennes has already been cast as the menacing President Coriolanus Snow, establishing the film’s dark tone early on.
At its core, “Sunrise On The Reaping” will centre on the character of Haymitch Abernathy, a figure already familiar to fans as the hard-drinking mentor played by Woody Harrelson in the initial trilogy. This time, audiences will meet a much younger Haymitch, following his journey as he is chosen to participate in the deadly 50th Hunger Games. In a particularly harrowing twist, this edition of the Games sees the number of tributes doubled, featuring two boys and two girls from each district—ramping up the stakes to unprecedented levels.
Readers first encountered Haymitch Abernathy as the grizzled, often caustic, yet ultimately caring mentor to Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in the saga’s early days. The original trilogy, adapted into blockbuster films starring Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, struck a chord with worldwide audiences and cemented its place in pop culture history. By focusing on Haymitch’s origin story, the new film aims to shed light on the traumas and victories that shaped the beloved, yet deeply flawed, advisor.
Directing this ambitious project is Francis Lawrence, no stranger to Panem, having previously helmed several instalments of the series, including “Catching Fire” and both “Mockingjay” parts. Lawrence’s consistent vision and understanding of Collins’ dystopian world have been credited with maintaining the franchise’s critical and commercial success.
The announcement of Close and Porter’s involvement has sparked speculation and intrigue across fan communities and film circles alike. Their distinguished backgrounds are expected to bring fresh energy and gravitas to the established universe, particularly as they tackle characters that promise complexity and depth.
As excitement mounts ahead of its 2026 release, industry observers are already predicting that “The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping” will offer both thrilling entertainment and deeper insight into the mechanisms of power, sacrifice, and survival that have made the series so compelling. With a compelling storyline, a string of high-profile casting decisions, and a proven director at the helm, anticipation is running high for Panem’s next chapter.
Further casting announcements and production updates are expected in the coming months, as fans eagerly await their return to the unforgiving arenas and shadowy political machinations of Collins’ enduring dystopia.