Hunger Games Director Details Character Backstories for New Film
Director Francis Lawrence worked with Joseph Zada and McKenna Grace to develop private histories for their characters in the upcoming prequel.
On October 27, 2026, director Francis Lawrence revealed that he, along with actors Joseph Zada and McKenna Grace, developed private backstories to inform the relationship between their characters, Haymitch Abernathy and Maysilee Donner, for the upcoming film The Hunger Games: The Sunrise on the Reaping.
According to slashfilm.com, the production process for the movie included extensive rehearsals for action sequences and fight choreography, which took place in Spain.
The film is based on the book The Sunrise on the Reaping, which was published by author Suzanne Collins in 2025. The relationship between Haymitch and Maysilee was originally revealed in the 2009 book Catching Fire. Francis Lawrence has directed every Hunger Games film adaptation except for the first one.
Quick answers
Who plays Haymitch and Maysilee in the new film?
Joseph Zada plays the role of Haymitch Abernathy, and McKenna Grace plays the role of Maysilee Donner.
Where were the action sequences for the film rehearsed?
The production team conducted extensive rehearsals for action sequences and fight choreography in Spain.