Joseph Zada, the Australian actor acclaimed for his portrayal of Charlie Roth in the Stan Original Series Invisible Boys, has been cast as a young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping. This film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ latest novel is set to delve into Haymitch’s early life, exploring his experiences in the arena during the Second Quarter Quell, a pivotal event in Panem’s history. Zada’s casting marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, bringing his nuanced acting skills to a globally recognized franchise.
From Invisible Boys to the Arena
Before stepping into the shoes of a young Haymitch, Zada gained recognition for his role in Invisible Boys, a groundbreaking LGBTQIA+ series that premiered on Stan in February 2025. Based on Holden Sheppard’s award-winning novel, the series follows the lives of three gay teens in the small coastal town of Geraldton, Western Australia, as they navigate the complexities of identity, love, and societal expectations. Zada’s portrayal of Charlie, a rebellious yet sensitive teenager, earned him critical acclaim for capturing the raw emotion and vulnerability of his character.
Invisible Boys has been lauded for its authentic representation of LGBTQIA+ youth, with critics praising its honest depiction of the challenges faced by young queer individuals in conservative communities. The series has sparked important conversations about acceptance, mental health, and the power of friendship among marginalized groups.
A New Chapter in the Hunger Games Saga
Sunrise on the Reaping is set to explore the events leading up to the Second Quarter Quell, focusing on Haymitch Abernathy’s journey as a tribute from District 12. The film aims to provide a deeper understanding of Haymitch’s character, shedding light on the experiences that shaped him into the cynical and complex mentor seen in the original Hunger Games trilogy. Zada’s casting as the younger Haymitch brings a fresh perspective to the role, offering audiences a glimpse into the character’s formative years.
Joining Zada in the cast is Whitney Peak, known for her roles in Gossip Girl and Hocus Pocus 2, who will portray Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s love interest. Their on-screen chemistry is anticipated to add depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal relationships that influenced Haymitch’s path.
A Commitment to Authentic Storytelling
Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed the original Hunger Games films, returns to the franchise with Sunrise on the Reaping. In a recent interview, Lawrence emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling, stating, “We want to honor the source material while bringing new dimensions to the characters. Joseph’s performance as Charlie in Invisible Boys demonstrated his ability to convey complex emotions, making him an ideal choice for the role of young Haymitch.”
The film’s production team has also expressed their commitment to inclusivity and representation. Screenwriter Suzanne Collins collaborated closely with LGBTQIA+ consultants to ensure that the portrayal of Haymitch’s relationships and experiences resonates with authenticity and respect.
As Zada prepares to take on the role of young Haymitch, fans of both Invisible Boys and the Hunger Games series eagerly anticipate his performance. His transition from an LGBTQIA+ drama to a major Hollywood franchise underscores the industry’s growing recognition of diverse talent and stories. Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, promising to add a new layer to the rich tapestry of the Hunger Games universe.
For those interested in exploring Zada’s earlier work, Invisible Boys is currently streaming on Stan in Australia. The series offers a poignant and compelling narrative that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
