Ralph Fiennes replaces Donald Sutherland as President Snow in Hunger Games prequel
- Ralph Fiennes has been cast as President Snow in the upcoming prequel film.
- The film takes place 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games series.
- Fans are generally excited about the casting, predicting high box office returns.
In the United States, Ralph Fiennes has been announced as the new actor to take on the role of President Coriolanus Snow in the upcoming film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. This casting decision was made public when Lionsgate revealed the news through their social media channels. Fiennes is set to play the character 24 years prior to the events of the original Hunger Games storyline featuring Katniss Everdeen, who is portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence. The trailer for the film confirmed speculation surrounding the casting, following an earlier report suggesting Fiennes would step in after the late Donald Sutherland, who initially portrayed the character in the first four films of the franchise. Additionally, the producer Nina Jacobson expressed her excitement about working with Fiennes, describing him as one of the greatest actors of this generation. The Hunger Games franchise, which has already yielded significant box office returns each of its previous films—totaling over $3.3 billion—continues to generate buzz among fans. Fans are optimistic that this upcoming installment will also be a success, as seen in various social media reactions celebrating the casting news. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on November 20, 2026, and expectations remain high for its release, further fueled by a talented cast that includes other notable actors like Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak, and Jesse Plemons, among others. The franchise remains a popular cultural touchstone, with a dedicated fanbase that continually engages with the material, leading to excitement regarding the narrative that will unfold in this prequel. While some online backlash initially surrounded Fiennes' appointment—primarily from fans advocating for Kiefer Sutherland to take over the role—support for the choice has generally been positive. Fans eagerly anticipate how Fiennes will interpret this complex character, as the narrative explores what shaped Snow before the rise of Katniss Everdeen.