Kieran Culkin, known for his standout performances in Succession and A Real Pain, has been cast as the young Caesar Flickerman in Lionsgate's upcoming film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. The announcement, which put an end to months of speculation, was officially confirmed by Lionsgate on X/Twitter. Fans of the franchise have been eagerly awaiting news on who would take on the iconic role of the charismatic and eccentric TV host in this latest adaptation of Suzanne Collins' work.
Sunrise on the Reaping is set to follow the timeline of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and precedes the events of the original Hunger Games movies, which starred Jennifer Lawrence. As the prequel delves into the dystopian world of Panem, Culkin steps into the role previously brought to life by Stanley Tucci in the earlier films. Erin Westerman, Co-President of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, praised Culkin's casting, stating, "Kieran’s scene-stealing presence and undeniable charm are perfect for Caesar Flickerman, the sickeningly watchable host of Panem’s darkest spectacle. Stanley Tucci made Caesar unforgettable—and now Kieran will make the role entirely his own."
Culkin's recent accolades, including a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award for his role in A Real Pain, highlight his ability to captivate audiences. His earlier roles in films like Father of the Bride and Home Alone showcased his talent from a young age, and his recent work has solidified his status as a versatile actor. His quick wit and charm make him a fitting choice for the role of Caesar Flickerman.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. Alongside Culkin, the film will feature a stellar cast including Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, and Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy. As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to seeing how this new adaptation brings Collins' novel to life on the big screen.
