Exciting News: Elle Fanning Takes on Effie Trinket in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Filming for the highly anticipated prequel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, is officially underway, and fans are buzzing about Elle Fanning stepping into the iconic role of Effie Trinket. This exciting development comes with the full endorsement of Elizabeth Banks, who portrayed an older version of Effie in the original Hunger Games series.
Set in the dystopian world of Panem, this latest installment in the beloved franchise is based on Suzanne Collins’ best-selling novel and unfolds on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games—24 years before the events of the first film. In this prequel, Effie serves as the stylist for Haymitch Abernathy, played by Joseph Zada, as they prepare for the 50th games.
During the Academy Museum Gala, Fanning shared with The Hollywood Reporter that filming is progressing well, stating, “I’m almost done with my section. Effie is on the screen now.” She also mentioned her conversations with Banks, saying, “I’ve met her before, and she was so kind. She sent me beautiful flowers with the message, ‘May the odds be ever in your favor.’ We’ve texted a little bit. She made that role iconic and lovable, and I hope I can live up to what she did for the fans.”
Returning to direct this thrilling new chapter is Francis Lawrence, with the film set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. The impressive cast includes Zada, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor, and Ben Wang, along with Ralph Fiennes as the menacing President Snow.
Fanning has credited her passionate fanbase for helping her secure the role of Effie, telling MTV earlier this year, “It was funny because I think fans made this happen in a way. The studio [Lionsgate] mentioned they were getting kind of hounded online about me being cast as Effie.”
As excitement builds for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, fans can’t wait to see how Fanning brings her unique flair to the cherished character. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the film’s release!
