Glenn Close and Billy Porter join The Hunger Games prequel cast

On June 16, 2025, it was announced that Glenn Close and Billy Porter had joined the cast of the upcoming film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. The announcement was made via the film's official Instagram account and has generated significant excitement among fans. Close is set to portray Drusilla Sickle, the District 12 tribute escort, while Porter will take on the role of Magno Stift, Drusilla's estranged husband and stylist for the tributes. These casting choices add to the star-studded lineup already confirmed for the film, which features renowned actors including Kieran Culkin, Ralph Fiennes, Whitney Peak, and Maya Hawke. The movie is based on a recent novel by Suzanne Collins, which also shares its title with the film. It serves as a prequel to the popular Hunger Games franchise, which began with the original book series and later adapted into a successful film series starring Jennifer Lawrence. This upcoming story revisits the world of Panem nearly 25 years before the events depicted in the original saga, focusing on the 50th annual Hunger Games. The plot centers around a young Haymitch Abernathy as he is chosen to compete, highlighting his challenges and eventual victory in the arena. This victory later leads him to become the mentor of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, central characters from the original novels. The film is being produced by Lionsgate and is set to arrive in theaters on November 20, 2026. The excitement surrounding the film’s cast announcements reflects a sustained interest in the Hunger Games universe, which continues to capture the imagination of fans worldwide. The decision to bring in high-profile actors like Close and Porter indicates the studio's commitment to delivering a compelling story that resonates with audiences, both old and new. With a mix of fresh talent and established stars, the production team aims to create a memorable experience that connects with the thematic essence of the original series while exploring new narratives within the Hunger Games lore.