Ralph Fiennes is stepping into one of the most iconic roles in The Hunger Games universe—and he’s excited to do so. The veteran actor will play a younger version of President Coriolanus Snow in the upcoming prequel film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, taking on a character made unforgettable by the late Donald Sutherland.
Honoring Donald Sutherland’s Legacy
Fiennes, 62, spoke recently about how much he admired Sutherland, who passed away in June 2024 at the age of 88. The two had worked together once in the 2006 film Land of the Blind. Fiennes praised Sutherland’s depth and complexity as an actor, saying, “No one can be him,” but added that he hopes to bring some of that emotional depth into his own portrayal.
He emphasized that he’s not trying to copy Sutherland’s performance. Instead, he aims to echo the character’s psychological complexity while offering his own take on the younger Snow.
About the New Hunger Games Prequel
Sunrise on the Reaping will follow the events of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. In this story, we meet a young Haymitch Abernathy, the same character played by Woody Harrelson in the original movies. Joseph Zada, 20, will play the younger version of Haymitch as he fights to survive the brutal arena two decades before Katniss Everdeen.
The cast also includes major names like Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor, and Elle Fanning.
Ralph Fiennes on Joining the Franchise
Fiennes told Entertainment Tonight and The Hollywood Reporter that he’s thrilled to be part of such a well-known franchise. He said the role is a challenge, but one he looks forward to. The producers agree. Nina Jacobson, a longtime producer of the Hunger Games films, said working with Fiennes has been a dream of hers for years.
“Having Ralph play President Snow 24 years before Katniss enters the arena is our way of honoring Donald Sutherland,” she said. “He’s one of the greatest actors of his generation.”
Ralph Fiennes brings a powerful presence to any role he plays, and fans are eager to see how he’ll portray the younger President Snow. With Sunrise on the Reaping set for release in November 2026, the Hunger Games saga continues to expand in new and exciting directions—bringing both familiar faces and fresh talent to the story.
As we wait, one thing’s clear: stepping into Donald Sutherland’s shoes is no small task, but if anyone can do it justice, it’s Ralph Fiennes.
