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Kieran Culkin lands next movie role in “perfect” recasting of “unforgettable” character

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Kieran Culkin has been announced among the cast of The Hunger Games prequel Sunrise on the Reaping.

Actor from Succession has been cast as Caesar Flickerman in an upcoming movie directed by Francis Lawrence, a film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel titled the same. (Source: The Hollywood Reporter)

In the original movies, Stanley Tucci played Caesar Flickerman, who served as the emcee for the Hunger Games. He conducted interviews with the contestants prior to their participation and offered commentary throughout the live television coverage of the games.

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Announcing the casting update, Lionsgate’s co-president Erin Westerman expressed: “Kieran’s captivating performance and irresistible charm fit perfectly for the role of Caesar Flickerman, the mesmerizing host of Panem’s grim spectacle. Stanley Tucci brought Caesar to life in an unforgettable manner, and now Kieran will imbue the character with his unique touch.

Nina Jacobson, the executive producer, noted that “Kieran’s charm, humor, and unforeseeable nature make him a spot-on choice for Caesar Flickerman. A character like Caesar turns violence into entertainment, and with an actor as multifaceted as Kieran, we’re ensured that we won’t be able to tear our eyes away.

Kulkin, having just been awarded an Academy Award for his role in “A Real Pain“, is set to team up with a talented ensemble cast for the upcoming movie “Sunrise on the Reaping“. This film delves into the narrative of Haymitch Abernathy during the 50th installment of the games.

In the upcoming prequel of the original series, the character Haymitch, previously acted by Woody Harrelson, will be portrayed by Joseph Zada. Notably, Ralph Fiennes and Elle Fanning have been cast for their roles as President Coriolanus Snow and Effie Trinket respectively.

In the latest casting news, Jesse Plemons and Maya Hawke are set to portray Plutarch Heavensbee and Wiress, while Molly McCann and Iona Bell will take on the roles of Louelle and Lou Lou respectively. Additionally, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Lili Taylor, and Ben Wang have also joined the cast for this upcoming project.

Under the direction of Lawrence and written by Billy Ray, “Sunrise at the Harvest” serves as the second prequel in the “Hunger Games” series, following “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”. Production for this upcoming film is scheduled to start in July.

Although Culkin has become part of a notable ensemble, Rachel Zegler clarified she won’t repeat her performance as Lucy Gray Baird in the movie. However, Zegler expressed to Cosmopolitan that she would be thrilled if given another chance to play the role if the situation arises.

At the break of dawn on November 20, 2026, “Dawn of the Reaping,” a prequel film to the renowned Hunger Games series, will grace cinema screens. The book bearing the same title is currently available for purchase right here.

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The eagerly awaited prequel movie, “Sunrise on the Reaping” or “Dawn of the Reaping,” based on the Hunger Games series, will be released in cinemas on November 20, 2026. The book version is already available and can be bought here.

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In theatres on November 20, 2026, witness “Sunrise on the Reaping,” a prequel to the Hunger Games saga. The novel adaptation is now out and ready for purchase right here.

Read more Hunger Games news on our dedicated homepage

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2025-05-22 14:49

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