Ralph Fiennes Cast as President Snow in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping

Ralph Fiennes has been cast as President Coriolanus Snow in Lionsgate’s upcoming Hunger Games film, Sunrise on the Reaping. This latest adaptation marks a new chapter in the globally acclaimed franchise and was officially confirmed through the The Hunger Games’ official X/Twitter account.

Fiennes, known for his roles in The Conclave and the Harry Potter series, joins an already impressive roster of talent. His casting is arguably one of the most pivotal and anticipated choices for this installment, given the iconic nature of the character previously portrayed by the late Donald Sutherland.

Ralph Fiennes. Image credit: Daniele Venturelli/WireImage

Set before the events of the four original Hunger Games films—starring Jennifer Lawrence—and following 2023’s The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Sunrise on the Reaping explores a later stage in Snow’s rule over Panem. The story centers on District 12 tribute and future victor Haymitch Abernathy, offering a fresh perspective on the oppressive regime under which he must compete.

Producer Nina Jacobson expressed her excitement about the casting, stating, “We wanted to honor Donald Sutherland by having one of this generation’s greatest actors play President Snow 24 years before Katniss Everdeen entered the arena. Working with Ralph has been on my bucket list since he traumatized me for life in Schindler's List. It’s genuinely a thrill to welcome him to the Hunger Games.”

While Fiennes may be the standout name among recent announcements, he isn’t the only one generating buzz. Jesse Plemons (Breaking Bad, Civil War) will portray a younger version of Plutarch Heavensbee, originally played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. Additionally, Joseph Zada (Total Control, Invisible Boys) will take on the role of Haymitch Abernathy.

President Snow.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026.
pic.twitter.com/mj9gXk1hTt

— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) May 16, 2025

Based on Suzanne Collins’ novel released in 2025, Sunrise on the Reaping will be directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence. The screenplay is penned by Billy Ray, who previously worked on the first Hunger Games film. Scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, the film was initially announced last summer, followed by a teaser trailer released this April.

This upcoming installment promises to expand the dystopian world of Panem while deepening the narrative around some of its most compelling figures. With a strong creative team and powerhouse performances lined up, anticipation continues to build for what could be one of the most memorable entries in the saga yet.