Sydney actor Joseph Zada lands lead role in new Hunger Games film
Twenty-year-old Joseph Zada has scored a life-changing lead role as Haymitch Abernathy in the highly anticipated new instalment of the Hunger Games franchise.
Confidential
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Sydney actor Joseph Zada has scored a life-changing role, and he’s joining the Hunger Games arena.
Though his name might not be widely known just yet, Zada is set to become Australia’s next breakout star to follow in the footsteps of Hollywood standouts Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi.
The 20-year-old who attended high school in Sydney’s east is set to take on the lead role of Haymitch Abernathy in the highly anticipated new instalment of the Hunger Games franchise, Sunrise on the Reaping.
The prequel is set 24 years before the original films and follows a young Haymitch whose character was first brought to life by Woody Harrelson.
He is joined by Ugandan-Canadian actor Whitney Peak, who will play Lenore Dove Baird.
Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erin Westerman said, “After auditioning hundreds of gifted performers from around the world, [Zada and co-star Whitney Peak] stood out — not just for their talent, but for the emotional truth they brought to these iconic roles.”
“Haymitch has always been a fan favourite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise. We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series,” she said.
The long awaited return to Panem will hit theatres in November 2026, three years after the release of the last movie, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes.
The first Hunger Games film premiered in theatres in 2012 and featured Oscar-winning actor Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson.
The major announcement comes fresh from Zada starring in page-to-screen Australian series Invisible Boys.
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