Kieran Culkin, renowned for his captivating performance as Roman Roy in the hit series *Succession*, has been cast as a young Caesar Flickerman in Lionsgate's upcoming film adaptation of *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*. After months of swirling rumors, Lionsgate officially confirmed the news via X/Twitter, putting an end to the speculation and excitement among fans who have been eagerly awaiting the announcement.
This new installment in the *Hunger Games* saga is set to take place after the events of 2023's *The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes* and well before the original series featuring Jennifer Lawrence. As a prequel, *Sunrise on the Reaping* promises to delve deeper into the dystopian world of Panem. Culkin steps into the shoes of Caesar Flickerman, a role previously brought to life by Stanley Tucci in the earlier films. Erin Westerman, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President, 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."
Caesar Flickerman.
— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) May 21, 2025
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/hggGysk4Nd
Culkin's recent accolades, including a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award for his role in *A Real Pain*, have solidified his status as a versatile and dynamic actor. Fans of his work will remember his early career highlights in films like *Father of the Bride* and *Home Alone*, where he starred alongside his brother, Macaulay Culkin. His natural wit and charisma make him an ideal choice to portray the flamboyant and charismatic Caesar Flickerman in this highly anticipated prequel.
Set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026, *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping* will bring Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same name to the big screen. 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 the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for this next chapter in the *Hunger Games* universe.
