Ralph Fiennes to Play Snow in Hunger Games Prequel

Acclaimed actor Ralph Fiennes has been cast as President Coriolanus Snow in Lionsgate's highly anticipated adaptation of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.

The official Hunger Games social media accounts confirmed Fiennes' involvement today. The Oscar-nominated star, known for his roles in Schindler's List and the Harry Potter franchise, joins an impressive lineup of actors bringing Panem's dystopian world back to the big screen.

Set chronologically between The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and the original Hunger Games quadrilogy, Sunrise on the Reaping explores the early years of Haymitch Abernathy's victory while continuing Snow's transformation into Panem's ruthless leader. Fiennes will portray Snow midway through his political ascent, bridging Tom Blyth's younger interpretation and Donald Sutherland's iconic portrayal.

"We sought to pay tribute to Donald Sutherland by casting one of our era's finest actors as President Snow," producer Nina Jacobson remarked. "Ralph's performance in Schindler's List left an indelible mark on cinema history. Having him join the Hunger Games universe is truly exciting."

While Fiennes' casting generates significant buzz, the film boasts other notable additions to its ensemble. Jesse Plemons will play a younger Plutarch Heavensbee, originally portrayed by Philip Seymour Hoffman, with Joseph Zada taking on the pivotal role of Haymitch Abernathy.

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

Adapted from Suzanne Collins' bestselling 2025 novel, Sunrise on the Reaping marks Francis Lawrence's return to direct the franchise, with original Hunger Games screenwriter Billy Ray penning the script. Following its announcement last year and April's teaser release, the film is scheduled for global theatrical release on November 20, 2026.