Ralph Fiennes to Portray President Snow in New Hunger Games Prequel

Ralph Fiennes will embody President Coriolanus Snow in Lionsgate’s upcoming film adaptation, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.

The acclaimed actor, known for roles in The Conclave and Harry Potter, was confirmed for the film via the official Hunger Games X/Twitter account today. Fiennes joins a stellar cast, taking on one of the franchise’s most pivotal roles.

Set before the Jennifer Lawrence-led Hunger Games series and after 2023’s prequel, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Sunrise on the Reaping explores a younger Snow, previously played by Tom Blyth, as he evolves into Panem’s ruthless leader, a role the late Donald Sutherland defined in the 2010s films. Fiennes’ portrayal centers on Snow during a story focused on District 12’s Haymitch Abernathy, a future Hunger Games victor.

“Casting Ralph Fiennes as President Snow pays tribute to Donald Sutherland’s iconic performance while bringing one of today’s finest actors to the role,” said producer Nina Jacobson. “Since his unforgettable performance in Schindler’s List, working with Ralph has been a dream. We’re thrilled to have him join the Hunger Games family.”

Fiennes’ casting is among the most anticipated for Sunrise on the Reaping, though other notable actors have also been announced. Jesse Plemons, known for Breaking Bad and Civil War, will portray a younger Plutarch Heavensbee, originally played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, while Joseph Zada, star of Total Control and Invisible Boys, takes on the role of Haymitch.

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’ 2025 novel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set for theatrical release on November 20, 2026. Directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence with a screenplay by Billy Ray, the film was announced last summer, followed by a teaser trailer in April.