The initial series of four Hunger Games films ruled the box office from 2012 to 2015, achieving not only massive financial success but also critical acclaim.
A decade later, the franchise remains strong, with *The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes* enjoying similar critical and financial success. It’s hardly surprising that the announcement of Sunrise on the Reaping—a new Hunger Games book scheduled for release in spring 2025—was quickly followed by news of its film adaptation set for November 2026. Fans can hardly wait!
This upcoming prequel novel will center on Haymitch, a character whose storyline is sure to thrill fans around the globe. Known as Katniss and Peeta’s mentor during their time in the Hunger Games, Haymitch himself triumphed in the deadly competition years earlier. But just how long ago did he win?
When did Haymitch win the Hunger Games?
Sunrise on the Reaping takes place 24 years before the events of the original trilogy, depicting Haymitch’s victory during the 50th Hunger Games. This particular Games was notable as the second-ever Quarter Quell, an event that introduces a unique twist every 25 years. In this iteration, four children were chosen from each district instead of the usual two. Haymitch secured his victory by cleverly tricking the runner-up from District 1 into injuring herself with her own axe.
This triumph set the stage for Haymitch’s participation in the third Quarter Quell during the 75th Hunger Games, where contestants were selected from the pool of previous winners.
