Joseph Zada Takes on Iconic Role of Young Haymitch in Hunger Games Prequel

In exciting news for fans of both the Hunger Games franchise and Australian television, Joseph Zada has been announced as the actor portraying a young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming prequel film, Sunrise on the Reaping. Zada, best known for his role in the critically-acclaimed queer Australian TV series, Invisible Boys, is set to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved character.

Sunrise on the Reaping is the much-anticipated film adaptation of the fifth book in the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins. Released just last month, the novel explores the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, who fans will remember as the gruff yet caring mentor to Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in the original trilogy. This new installment is set 24 years before Katniss’s story begins and delves into Haymitch's own harrowing experience in the infamous arena.

Franchise enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting news about the casting of Haymitch, a character first brought to life on screen by Woody Harrelson. Despite a flurry of online speculation proposing various actors for the role, the part has been awarded to the relatively new face of Joseph Zada. He joins the likes of Whitney Peak, who will play his girlfriend, Lenore Dove Baird, in this cinematic exploration of the early days of Panem’s sinister tradition.

Who is Joseph Zada?

Prior to landing the role of young Haymitch, Joseph Zada has been making waves in the industry through his captivating performance as Charlie Roth in the Australian series Invisible Boys. This show, based on Holden Sheppard’s bestselling novel, follows the lives of four young gay men coming to terms with their identities in a small, conservative town.

Through its honest storytelling and compelling characters, Invisible Boys has quickly amassed a dedicated fanbase. The series has been praised not only for its engaging narrative but also for its sensitive and groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes. Critics have highlighted the show’s ability to strike a balance between provocative entertainment and providing a safe space for viewers who may feel alienated due to their sexual orientation.

Alongside Zada, the series features a talented ensemble cast including Joe Klocek as Matt Jones, Pia Miranda as Anna Cologero, Aydan Calafiore as Zeke Calogero, Zach Blampied as Kate Hammersmith, and Myles Pollard as Jack Hammersmith. The show is currently available to stream in Australia via Stan, with discussions of a global release in the works.

Landing the role of young Haymitch marks a significant milestone in Zada’s burgeoning career, providing him with an opportunity to bring depth and nuance to a character that resonates with audiences worldwide. His performance is eagerly anticipated by fans who are curious to see how he will depict Haymitch’s transformation from a resourceful, tenacious young man to the complex mentor we meet later in the series.

As production gears up for Sunrise on the Reaping, excitement continues to build for this next chapter in the Hunger Games saga. The film is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, and promises to be a thrilling addition to the franchise.

Joseph Zada’s journey from the Australian small screen to a major Hollywood franchise exemplifies the rising influence of diverse voices in mainstream media. His casting not only highlights his talent but also signifies a broader cultural shift towards more inclusive and representative storytelling in film and television.

With his roots in a show that champions LGBTQ+ narratives and his upcoming role in a beloved international franchise, Zada is poised to become a significant figure in the entertainment industry. Fans of both Invisible Boys and the Hunger Games are eager to see how he will leave his mark on the big screen.

Stay tuned for more updates as production progresses and prepare for an exciting new journey into Panem’s tumultuous past when Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters.