The New 'Hunger Games' Part Is Getting More Interesting: A Fan Favourite Might Be Back — And I’m All For It
This cameo needs to happen.
It’s honestly wild to realize that it’s been 10 years since Josh Hutcherson and Jennifer Lawrence last stepped into the roles of Peeta Mellark and Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2. Time flies, right?
Since then, the Hunger Games universe hasn’t slowed down a bit — first came the 2023 prequel The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, diving into a young President Snow’s rise, and now the franchise is gearing up for Sunrise of the Reaping.
This upcoming film focuses on a teenage Haymitch preparing for the second Quarter Quell, and with its star-studded cast, fans are buzzing about what’s next.
Here’s the kicker: rumors have been swirling that a familiar face from the original trilogy — yes, that Peeta Mellark — might pop up in a surprise cameo.
And guess what? Josh Hutcherson himself recently chimed in, casually leaving the door wide open: "Yeah, no, that’d be cool." I don’t know about you, but I’m seriously hoping he’s dropping a hint.
If you haven’t read the Sunrise of the Reaping book yet, here’s a quick recap: Peeta and Katniss do appear briefly in the epilogue, supporting Haymitch as he wrestles with his own traumatic past.
Since the story takes place years after the original trilogy’s events, it makes total sense — Peeta’s older now, and Hollywood’s makeup magic can easily age him further if needed. So, a cameo isn’t just wishful thinking, it’s absolutely plausible.
For those who need a refresher, Hutcherson made his debut as Peeta back in 2012’s The Hunger Games and reprised the role through the next three movies.
His portrayal of the loyal, brave, and deeply caring Peeta remains iconic for many fans — myself included. Hearing him say he’d be open to returning feels like a small but thrilling promise.
Now, about the Sunrise of the Reaping cast — it’s packed. Ralph Fiennes steps back in as President Snow, Elle Fanning returns as Effie Trinket, and a fresh crop of talented actors like McKenna Grace, Maya Hawke, and Whitney Peak join the ranks.
Joseph Zada will play Haymitch, bringing new life to the character’s younger years. Honestly, this cast alone has me marking my calendar for November 20, 2026, when the movie premieres.
