Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping casts Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner in epic return to Panem

Mckenna Grace has been cast as Maysilee Donner, a pivotal character in the highly anticipated film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, slated for release on November 20, 2026. Directed by Francis Lawrence and based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novel, the movie dives back into the dystopian world of Panem, focusing on the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Second Quarter Quell. Grace, celebrated for her roles in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Regretting You, joins Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy and Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird in a Lionsgate production poised to reignite the global fervor for the franchise, which has grossed over $3.3 billion across its five films. The casting of Grace, whose role echoes the iconic Katniss Everdeen, underscores the emotional weight of Maysilee’s journey and fuels excitement for this new chapter.

Announced on April 24, the casting news sent ripples through the fanbase, given Maysilee Donner’s significance in the story. As a District 12 tribute, Maysilee is a courageous figure whose tragic arc shapes Haymitch’s path to victory in the Second Quarter Quell, a defining moment in the Hunger Games lore. The film, produced by Color Force’s Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson with a screenplay by Billy Ray, draws from Collins’ novel, which sold 1.5 million copies in its first week across the U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With 1.2 million copies sold in the U.S. alone, the book outperformed the debut sales of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, signaling robust demand for new stories in Panem.

Set 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games, Sunrise on the Reaping explores Haymitch’s rise as a reluctant hero. Grace, at just 18, brings a wealth of experience to the role, positioning her as a cornerstone of the film’s appeal. Francis Lawrence, who has helmed every Hunger Games movie since Catching Fire, ensures visual and narrative continuity, while the involvement of Lionsgate executives Meredith Wieck and Scott O’Brien guarantees fidelity to Collins’ vision. The film’s announcement marks a bold step for the franchise, aiming to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.

Stellar cast of the new Hunger Games installment

The ensemble for Sunrise on the Reaping blends rising stars with seasoned talent, with Mckenna Grace leading the charge. Her casting as Maysilee Donner, a role coveted by many young actresses, highlights her ability to portray complex, resilient characters. Described as the closest equivalent to Katniss Everdeen, Maysilee’s part demands a balance of strength and vulnerability, qualities Grace has mastered in her previous work.

• Mckenna Grace (Maysilee Donner): A rising star known for Ghostbusters and Regretting You, she embodies the District 12 tribute’s courage.
• Joseph Zada (Haymitch Abernathy): A fresh face, Zada portrays the young Haymitch, destined to become Katniss’s mentor.
• Whitney Peak (Lenore Dove Baird): Known from Gossip Girl, Peak plays Haymitch’s girlfriend, adding emotional depth.
• Francis Lawrence (director): A franchise veteran, Lawrence ensures a cohesive vision for Panem.
• Billy Ray (screenwriter): With credits like Captain Phillips, Ray adapts Collins’ novel with precision.

The cast reflects Lionsgate’s strategy to merge new talent with established names, appealing to a broad audience. The production, overseen by Wieck and O’Brien, builds on the success of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, which grossed $337 million worldwide, proving the franchise’s enduring appeal.

Setting the stage for Sunrise on the Reaping

Sunrise on the Reaping centers on the Second Quarter Quell, a brutal edition of the Hunger Games that doubled the number of tributes, heightening the stakes. The story follows Haymitch Abernathy, a young man from District 12, as he navigates the deadly arena. Maysilee Donner, played by Grace, emerges as a key ally, her actions leaving a lasting impact on Haymitch’s survival and the broader resistance against the Capitol.

The novel, released on March 18, achieved remarkable sales, with 1.2 million copies sold in the U.S. during its first week—twice the debut of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and three times that of Mockingjay. Globally, the book’s 1.5 million copies sold underscore Collins’ storytelling prowess, with over 100 million copies of the Hunger Games series sold worldwide. The film, announced in June last year, is one of Lionsgate’s most ambitious projects, aiming to sustain the franchise’s status as a Hollywood juggernaut.

By focusing on the Second Quarter Quell, the movie delves into themes of oppression, sacrifice, and defiance, resonating with contemporary audiences. Haymitch’s story, enriched by Maysilee’s presence, offers a fresh perspective on a beloved character, while the high-stakes narrative promises the action and drama that defined the original films. Grace’s role is expected to be a standout, given Maysilee’s pivotal contribution to the emotional core of the story.

Mckenna Grace’s rising star

At 18, Mckenna Grace is already a Hollywood powerhouse. Her performances in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Frozen Empire showcased her ability to anchor major blockbusters, while her role in Regretting You highlighted her dramatic range. As Maysilee Donner, Grace faces the challenge of portraying a character whose brief but impactful journey resonates deeply with fans of the Hunger Games universe.

Grace’s upcoming projects further cement her status. She stars in Blumhouse’s Kiss of Death and the highly anticipated Scream 7 alongside Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox. Additionally, she joins Diane Lane in Lionsgate’s Anniversary, reinforcing her ties with the studio. Her casting in Sunrise on the Reaping reflects Hollywood’s trend of elevating young actresses to lead franchise roles, with Grace’s versatility making her a perfect fit for Maysilee’s demanding part.

The parallels drawn between Maysilee and Katniss Everdeen amplify expectations for Grace’s performance. Her ability to convey strength, empathy, and resilience will be crucial in bringing Maysilee to life, ensuring the character leaves a lasting impression. With a fanbase already rallying behind her, Grace is poised to become a defining figure in the Hunger Games legacy.

The Hunger Games franchise legacy

Since the release of Suzanne Collins’ first novel in 2008, The Hunger Games has been a cultural phenomenon. The original four films, released between 2012 and 2015, grossed $2.97 billion worldwide, with Catching Fire leading at $865 million. The series’ blend of dystopian storytelling, compelling characters, and universal themes like rebellion and inequality fueled its success, making it a benchmark for young adult adaptations.

The 2023 release of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, focusing on a young Coriolanus Snow, reaffirmed the franchise’s draw, earning $337 million on a $100 million budget. While not matching the original films’ numbers, it demonstrated the appetite for prequels. Sunrise on the Reaping, with its focus on Haymitch, aims to capitalize on this momentum, leveraging the popularity of a fan-favorite character to drive box office results.

The Hunger Games also shaped pop culture, inspiring works like Divergent and The Maze Runner. Its exploration of media manipulation and resistance remains relevant in an era of disinformation and social unrest, ensuring the franchise’s resonance with modern audiences. Grace’s casting, paired with Lawrence’s direction, positions the new film to honor this legacy while forging new ground.

Production timeline and release schedule

Sunrise on the Reaping is in early development, with filming set to begin in early 2026. Lionsgate has confirmed the November 20, 2026, release date, aligning with the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday to boost box office performance. The timeline reflects the studio’s confidence in the project, which has been meticulously planned since the novel’s debut.

• March 2025: Sunrise on the Reaping novel launches, selling 1.5 million copies in its first week.
• June 2025: Lionsgate announces the film adaptation.
• April 2025: Mckenna Grace, Joseph Zada, and Whitney Peak are cast.
• Early 2026: Filming begins, with locations in Europe and North America.
• November 20, 2026: Global theatrical release.

The tight schedule demands efficiency from producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, who have shepherded every Hunger Games film. Francis Lawrence’s expertise, combined with oversight from Wieck and O’Brien, ensures the project stays on track. The studio is also planning a robust marketing campaign to build anticipation.

Maysilee Donner.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/1i5uuwyDBz

— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) April 24, 2025

Fan and critic expectations

Mckenna Grace’s casting has sparked excitement among Hunger Games fans, who are eager to see her interpretation of Maysilee Donner. Social media buzz highlights the anticipation for her chemistry with Joseph Zada, as the dynamic between Maysilee and Haymitch is a highlight of the story. While Maysilee’s role is brief in the novel, the film is expected to expand her arc, giving Grace a platform to shine.

Critics note that Sunrise on the Reaping must balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes received praise for its visuals but faced criticism for pacing issues. The new film, with a focused narrative and a seasoned director, has the potential to address these concerns. Billy Ray’s screenplay, informed by his experience with complex narratives, is another promising factor.

The book’s stellar sales—1.5 million copies in a week—signal strong public interest. Lionsgate plans to amplify this enthusiasm with a marketing push that includes trailers, cast appearances, and exclusive online content, targeting both veteran fans and newcomers drawn to Grace’s star power.

Production challenges

Adapting Sunrise on the Reaping poses unique challenges. The novel’s focused scope, centered on a single Hunger Games event, requires careful expansion to fill a feature-length film. Billy Ray and Francis Lawrence must enrich the story without deviating from Collins’ vision, a task complicated by fans’ high expectations for Haymitch and Maysilee’s portrayals.

Location scouting is another hurdle. Previous films used settings in Georgia, North Carolina, and Germany to depict Panem’s diverse landscapes. For Sunrise on the Reaping, Lionsgate plans to film in Hungary and Poland to craft the Second Quarter Quell’s arena, while recreating the Capitol and District 12 with a mix of practical sets and visual effects. Maintaining consistency with earlier films while introducing new aesthetics will be critical.

The young cast, led by Grace, Zada, and Peak, faces the challenge of stepping into a beloved franchise. Their performances must capture the emotional weight of their characters while matching the intensity of predecessors like Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson. The chemistry between Grace and Zada, in particular, will be pivotal to the film’s success.

Cultural significance of The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games remains a cultural touchstone, particularly for younger audiences. Its themes of resistance against authoritarianism and social inequality resonate in a world grappling with political division and economic disparity. Haymitch’s story in Sunrise on the Reaping, with its focus on personal sacrifice and systemic injustice, reinforces these messages, making the film timely and impactful.

The franchise has also influenced other dystopian narratives, from The 100 to Ready Player One. Its portrayal of media manipulation, embodied by the Capitol’s propaganda, feels prescient in an age of social media and fake news. Mckenna Grace’s casting aligns with the series’ tradition of spotlighting young, dynamic talent, ensuring its appeal to Generation Z.

In markets like Brazil, where the franchise has earned $45 million in box office revenue, anticipation for the new film is high. The global fanbase, spanning dozens of countries, underscores the universal appeal of Collins’ storytelling, which transcends cultural boundaries through its focus on human resilience.

Suzanne Collins’ enduring legacy

Suzanne Collins, the architect of The Hunger Games, is one of the most influential authors of her generation. With over 100 million copies of her novels sold worldwide, she has crafted a universe that captivates readers and viewers alike. Sunrise on the Reaping, her fifth book in the series, showcases her ability to expand the lore while staying true to its core themes.

Collins’ involvement in the film adaptations, as a consultant, ensures that Sunrise on the Reaping reflects her vision. Her decision to center the story on Haymitch demonstrates her knack for breathing new life into secondary characters. The collaboration with Lionsgate, ongoing since 2012, has solidified her legacy as a storyteller whose work resonates across mediums.

Her novels also tackle pressing social issues, from unchecked capitalism to the ethics of war. The prominence of female characters like Maysilee Donner highlights Collins’ commitment to strong, nuanced protagonists, a hallmark of her writing that continues to inspire readers and filmmakers.

Economic impact of the franchise

The Hunger Games is a financial powerhouse for Lionsgate. The five films to date have generated $3.3 billion in global box office revenue, with the original Hunger Games earning $694 million on a $78 million budget. Catching Fire, the franchise’s peak, grossed $865 million, showcasing the series’ commercial dominance.

Sunrise on the Reaping, with an estimated $120 million budget, is poised to continue this trend. Lionsgate anticipates it will surpass The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ $337 million haul, leveraging the star power of Mckenna Grace and the popularity of Haymitch’s story. The studio’s marketing strategy, including brand partnerships and global premieres, aims to maximize revenue.

The franchise also drives economic activity beyond the box office. Filming locations like Atlanta and Berlin have become tourist attractions for fans, while merchandise—books, soundtracks, and apparel—generates millions annually. Grace’s involvement is expected to boost these ancillary revenues, given her appeal to younger audiences.

Countdown to the premiere

Lionsgate is gearing up for a comprehensive promotional campaign, set to launch in late 2025 with teasers and behind-the-scenes content. The strategy includes appearances at events like Comic-Con and collaborations with streaming platforms for exclusive featurettes. The soundtrack, a staple of the franchise, is in development, with rumors of artists like Billie Eilish or Lorde contributing.

The November 20, 2026, release targets the Thanksgiving holiday, a prime window for box office success. Simultaneous launches in key markets, including Brazil, China, and the U.K., will amplify the film’s global impact. Mckenna Grace’s star power, combined with the franchise’s loyal fanbase, positions Sunrise on the Reaping as a major cinematic event.

Logistical challenges, such as coordinating international shoots and ensuring cast safety, will test the production team. However, the experience of Jacobson, Simpson, and Lawrence, coupled with Lionsgate’s resources, bodes well for a smooth process. The film’s success will hinge on its ability to deliver a compelling story while honoring the Hunger Games legacy.

Celebrating The Hunger Games legacy

Sunrise on the Reaping is a testament to the enduring power of The Hunger Games. From a young adult novel to a global franchise, the series has sparked conversations about justice, power, and resilience. The casting of Mckenna Grace, Joseph Zada, and Whitney Peak underscores Lionsgate’s commitment to evolving the saga while staying true to its roots.

• Cultural impact: The Hunger Games has fueled social movements and debates on inequality.
• Iconic characters: Haymitch and Maysilee bridge old and new fans with their compelling stories.
• Faithful adaptation: Francis Lawrence’s direction ensures respect for Collins’ vision.
• Global reach: The franchise resonates in countries like Brazil, cementing its universal appeal.

The 2026 premiere will be a milestone for fans, who eagerly await the next chapter in Panem’s history. With Mckenna Grace leading the charge, Sunrise on the Reaping is set to be a defining moment for The Hunger Games.