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Stars set to reprise iconic roles in upcoming film
Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are reportedly returning as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in next year's The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the highly anticipated prequel to the blockbuster franchise.
Flash-forward sequence expected
According to The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline, the actors will appear in a flash-forward scene based on the novel by Suzanne Collins. The prequel, slated for release in November 2026, marks their first collaboration since Mockingjay - Part 2, the final installment of the original film series.
Lionsgate, the production company behind the franchise, has not commented on the reports.
Actors express enthusiasm for return
Lawrence, who rose to global fame as Katniss, previously stated she would be "totally" open to revisiting the role. Hutcherson echoed her sentiment in a recent interview with Variety, saying he would "be there in a heartbeat" if asked.
"It would not take any convincing at all."
Josh Hutcherson, Variety
Fan reactions range from excitement to disappointment
News of the actors' return sparked widespread enthusiasm among fans, with some comparing the announcement to "Rihanna returning to music" or "Jesus returning to Earth." However, others expressed frustration, arguing the reveal should have been saved as a surprise for the film's release.
Prequel details and franchise success
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping also stars McKenna Grace, Maya Hawke, and Ralph Fiennes. The source novel, published earlier this year, sold over 1.5 million copies in its first week, setting a record for Collins' fastest-selling book.
The franchise has grossed $3.3 billion worldwide since the first film's debut in 2012. A stage adaptation of the series also recently premiered.
