Mckenna Grace, Whitney Peak and Maya Hawke Meet Hunger Games Fans as New Girls on Fire
A franchise with lasting reach
Since its first book appeared nearly 20 years ago, The Hunger Games has grown into a global entertainment franchise. It has sold more than 100 million books, spawned six movies and earned $3.3 billion at the box office.
Its reach extends beyond books and films to theme park rides and merchandise. Images and phrases from the series—including mockingjay pins and “may the odds be ever in your favor”—remain part of popular culture.
A new story in Panem
Sunrise on the Reaping is the latest film in the series and is scheduled to arrive in theaters November 20. Its story returns audiences to Panem, the setting at the heart of the franchise.
The film’s themes include the misuse of power and suffering turned into spectacle. Those subjects make the new installment feel especially relevant in 2026.
Three actors step forward
Mckenna Grace, Whitney Peak and Maya Hawke lead the film’s new group of stars. Each has appeared in a pop culture franchise before, though this project offers a different kind of role in the Hunger Games world.
The actors spoke about filming, fan theories and the pressures of Panem. Their arrival gives the long-running series a fresh cast as it continues to expand.
Key points
- Sunrise on the Reaping is due in theaters November 20.
- Mckenna Grace, Whitney Peak and Maya Hawke star in the film.
- The franchise has sold more than 100 million books and earned $3.3 billion at the box office.
- The new film addresses misuse of power and suffering as spectacle.