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Zada Channels Harrelson for Hunger Games Prequel
28 Oct
Summary
- Joseph Zada meticulously studied Woody Harrelson to portray young Haymitch.
- Zada focused on the word 'sweetheart' to capture Haymitch's catchphrase.
- Sunrise on the Reaping will explore Haymitch's traumatic past.

Joseph Zada embodies a young Haymitch Abernathy in the forthcoming Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping. Zada dedicated himself to replicating Woody Harrelson's iconic portrayal, studying his past performances to master the character's unique dialect. A crucial element of his preparation involved repeatedly using the word 'sweetheart,' which becomes Haymitch's signature, often sarcastic, term of endearment.
The film is anticipated to explore the origins of Haymitch's trauma, providing context for his behavior in the original Hunger Games trilogy. Zada's performance has already drawn comparisons to Harrelson's, with early screenings highlighting the accuracy of his dialect work. Kelvin Harrison Jr. is also noted for his impressive portrayal of a younger character in the franchise.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release on November 20th, 2026. This adaptation promises to offer fans deeper insight into Haymitch's backstory and the events that shaped him into the mentor seen in the first film.