“Invisible Boys” Star Joseph Zada Enters “The Hunger Games” Arena As Haymitch
There’s fresh talent heading to Panem, and we think you are going to like him. Nineteen-year-old Joseph Zada has officially snagged the coveted role as young Haymitch Abernathy in Sunrise On The Reaping. This is the next big screen instalment, diving back into the world of The Hunger Games. Mark your calendars for its arrival in Australian theatres on November 20, 2026.
So What Is Haymitch’s Origin Story?
This prequel film throws us back to the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. The story centres on a 16-year-old Haymitch living in District 12 with his family. Things get messy fast when another tribute’s escape attempt goes fatally wrong. Capitol officials, including a younger Plutarch Heavensbee, manipulate the situation.
They pull Haymitch in as a substitute tribute for a completely restaged reaping. We will see the brutal games that forged the cynical mentor many remember from the original series. Zada stars opposite Whitney Peak, known from Gossip Girl, who plays Lenore Dove.
You Will Recognise Him From Invisible Boys
Does Joseph Zada seem familiar? You might know him from his standout performance in the powerful Australian LGBTQIA+ drama Invisible Boys, which streamed on Stan. The series earned high praise for its honest look at growing up gay in regional Western Australia.
One reviewer described it, saying, “This is a story of four boys fighting against prejudice, and it’s a must watch.” Zada’s performance in that series showed he can handle complex emotional material. Fans are expecting him to bring a compelling depth to the younger Haymitch, a character originally made famous by Woody Harrelson.
A Familiar Director Returns To Panem
Adding to the excitement behind the camera is Francis Lawrence. He directed the fan favourite films Catching Fire and Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2. His return suggests the prequel is in experienced hands, ready to deliver the action and drama audiences expect from the franchise. With Zada leading the cast, a deep dive into Haymitch’s past on the table, and a seasoned director calling the shots, Sunrise On The Reaping is shaping up to be a significant return to the arena.
