Oscar-nominated actor Jesse Plemons has been cast as Plutarch Heavensbee in Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, based on the prequel novel by Suzanne Collins. IndieWire reported that Plemons will play the younger version of the character the late Philip Seymour Hoffman first brought to the screen in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, with Part 2 being his final film role.
"Jesse is one of the most talented actors of his generation, with a proven record of picking his roles selectively," said Erin Westerman, co-president, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. "We are honored that he has chosen to bring his own take to one of the most fascinating figures in Panem, and feel that his previous collaboration with Philip Seymour Hoffman makes it all the more special. His Plutarch will be both a tribute to the character fans have already come to know and a portrayal he makes his own. We can't wait for audiences to see it."
Lionsgate has also cast three other main roles in the movie: Joseph Zada (Haymitch Abernathy), Whitney Peak (Lenore Dove Baird), and McKenna Grace (Maysilee Donner).
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will be released in theaters on November 20, 2026. Francis Lawrence is directing from a script adaptation by Billy Ray. Color Force's Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson will produce, with Cameron MacConomy executive producing.