A first look at Ralph Fiennes portraying President Snow in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, “Sunrise on the Reaping,” has ignited excitement among fans online. The preview originated from a now-deleted TikTok post and reveals Fiennes standing in a blue uniform on a large poster captioned,
“Our President Coriolanus Snow: Panem’s No. 1 Peacekeeper,”
signaling his role in this new installment set decades before the original series.
Overview of the New Hunger Games Prequel and Fiennes’ Role
“Sunrise on the Reaping” takes place more than twenty years before the original Hunger Games saga, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy and the landmark 50th Hunger Games. The story is set to deepen the exploration of Panem’s history, shedding light on earlier events that shaped the dystopian world. Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair, described Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins as a “master storyteller” whose vision guides the project, emphasizing the anticipation surrounding this return to the universe.
“We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know Hunger Games fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”
— Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair
The prequel book was released in early 2025, with the film adaptation slated for a November 20, 2026 theatrical debut, promising fans a fresh perspective on the origins of the brutal Hunger Games tradition.
Understanding the Legacy of President Snow and Fiennes’ Challenge
President Snow, originally portrayed by Donald Sutherland in the early Hunger Games films, is remembered as the ruthless autocrat controlling Panem through fear and manipulation. Sutherland’s performance as this oppressive dictator was a cornerstone of the franchise’s narrative. Before his death in June 2024, he played Snow in the first four movies. The role was further explored by Tom Blyth in 2023’s
“The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,”
which depicted a younger Snow and the inception of the Games.
Taking over the mantle, Ralph Fiennes openly acknowledges the significant expectations tied to embodying this iconic character. In interviews with Entertainment Tonight and The Hollywood Reporter, Fiennes expressed admiration for Sutherland’s work but clarified his intention not to imitate him.
“But I think the character he created is very complex… The complexity of that psychology, I hope I can echo in some way.”
— Ralph Fiennes, Actor
“…I wasn’t going to try and be Donald Sutherland, because no one can be him.”
— Ralph Fiennes, Actor
Fiennes’ goal is to convey the intricate psychological dimensions behind President Snow, ensuring the character’s menacing depth remains intact while offering his own interpretation within this new narrative era.
Main Cast Bringing the Prequel to Life
The prequel features a diverse ensemble portraying key figures in this earlier chapter of Panem’s turbulent history. Joseph Zada will play Haymitch Abernathy, a young mentor destined to influence future events. Whitney Peak appears as Lenore Dove Baird, while Mckenna Grace takes on the role of Maysilee Donner, a prominent tribute. Jesse Plemons joins the cast as Plutarch Heavensbee, the influential Head Gamemaker whose decisions affect the Games’ direction.
Impact and Expectations Surrounding the Upcoming Release
Ralph Fiennes stepping into the role of President Snow marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, as he brings renewed intensity and depth to a character known for his tyranny and complexity. The anticipation surrounding “Sunrise on the Reaping,” supported by the continued creative involvement of Suzanne Collins and Lionsgate’s leadership, fuels hopes for a compelling extension of the Hunger Games saga.
The project promises to enrich the franchise’s lore, connecting fans with the origins of key characters such as Katniss Everdeen’s world and the evolving nature of control in Panem. With the film’s release set for late 2026, audiences worldwide await the unfolding of this legendary story that shapes much of what has made the Hunger Games a cultural phenomenon.
— Media Updates (@mediaforupdates) September 18, 2025
https://twitter.com/itchyhaybitchy/status/1968581608186777608
That poster design perfectly captures the dystopian propaganda style from the original films. Can't wait to see Snow's origin story continue.
— Hat3Asylum (@Hat3Asylum) September 18, 2025
