‘I’m Super Excited’: Fan Casting Winner Revealed for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’

Lionsgate has officially announced the winner of its highly anticipated fan casting contest for the upcoming film, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Five months after launching an open audition, Florida-based actor and filmmaker Devon Singletary has been selected to join the cast, a monumental opportunity that has generated considerable buzz among the franchise’s dedicated fanbase. His genuine excitement, captured in an announcement video, reflects the dream of many fans to be part of the dystopian world of Panem.

The Fan Casting Initiative

In May, Lionsgate initiated a unique open audition process, inviting fans to showcase their talents for a chance to appear in the sixth installment of ‘The Hunger Games’ film series. The contest encouraged participants to act out their favorite scenes, perform songs, or present original improvisations, with submissions primarily made via YouTube Shorts. This innovative approach not only engaged the global fanbase but also offered an unconventional pathway into a major Hollywood production, generating a wide array of creative and often humorous entries across social media platforms.

Devon Singletary: A Fan’s Dream Realized

Devon Singletary’s selection as the fan casting winner marks a significant moment for both the actor and the franchise. His reaction to the news was shared in a video posted on ‘The Hunger Games’ official Instagram page, where he expressed being “blown away” and “speechless,” adding, “I’m super excited.” Singletary, an actor and filmmaker hailing from Florida, was congratulated by cast members McKenna Grace, Whitney Peak, and Joseph Zada.

In the announcement video, Singletary was also shown arriving on set for his first day, further highlighting the reality of his new role. He shared his admiration for Suzanne Collins’ work, stating, “I love the ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ book. Being selected into the ‘Hunger Games’ is a great honor.”

Singletary’s Role in Panem

Devon Singletary will portray the character Blair in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Blair is described as a close friend of two significant characters in the ‘Hunger Games’ lore: Haymitch Abernathy and Burdock Everdeen, who is Katniss Everdeen’s father.

About ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Film

Slated for release on November 20, 2026, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is the highly anticipated prequel based on Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same name. The film will transport audiences back to Panem approximately 24 years before the events of the original ‘Hunger Games’ saga.

The narrative begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. This particular event is infamous for selecting twice the usual number of tributes, leading to increased bloodshed and trauma. The story will focus on a young, 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy (played by Joseph Zada), delving into his harrowing journey as a tribute in the deadly arena, and charting the course of his life both during and after his victory.

Returning Director and Star-Studded Cast

Francis Lawrence, who has directed every ‘Hunger Games’ installment since 2012, returns to helm this prequel, ensuring a consistent vision for the beloved franchise.

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring a mix of established stars and promising new talents. In addition to Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy and Devon Singletary as Blair, other notable cast members include Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin as a younger Caesar Flickerman, Elle Fanning as a young Effie Trinket, Ralph Fiennes as President Snow, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Billy Porter, and Lili Taylor as Mags Flanagan.

Conclusion

The announcement of Devon Singletary as the fan casting winner for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ adds an exciting dimension to the eagerly awaited prequel. This unique initiative has not only fostered deeper engagement with the fanbase but has also brought a fresh face into the intricate world of Panem. As the November 2026 release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for the film that promises to explore the pivotal Second Quarter Quell and the formative years of one of the franchise’s most iconic characters, Haymitch Abernathy.