Josh Hutcherson stated at Dream It Con in Paris he would "happily play Peeta again" if author Suzanne Collins writes a story that includes the character's future.
He is particularly interested in exploring what happened to Peeta and Katniss Everdeen after the events of *Mockingjay*, specifically how they built their family life.
This news comes as Lionsgate plans a film adaptation of the latest prequel novel, *Sunrise on the Reaping*, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy, set for a Fall 2026 release.
Why this matters:: Hutcherson's public enthusiasm keeps hope alive for fans wanting to see the story continue for the original main characters, signaling potential franchise expansion beyond prequels.
Josh Hutcherson, known for portraying Peeta Mellark across the four original *Hunger Games* films (2012-2015), recently reignited fan hopes during an appearance at Dream It Con in Paris. He confirmed his willingness to step back into Peeta's shoes, provided author Suzanne Collins pens a suitable narrative. "The story is incredible. The *Hunger Games* was incredible," Hutcherson stated, adding, "I’m curious to know what happens between when they have their family and when the story ends... But I’m down. If you can talk to Suzanne Collins and tell her to write a book, I’m in. Sign me up.”
This declaration arrives as the *Hunger Games* universe expands with Collins' new prequel novel, *Sunrise on the Reaping*, centered on the Second Quarter Quell and a young Haymitch Abernathy. While this upcoming story (and its 2026 film adaptation) explores the past, Hutcherson's comments point towards a potential future for the characters fans grew up with.
While Collins has given no official indication of writing a direct sequel following *Mockingjay*, the epilogue of *Sunrise on the Reaping* reportedly features an older Haymitch reflecting on his life post-rebellion, mentioning both Katniss and Peeta. This has fueled minor speculation about possible cameos in the prequel film, though it remains purely conjecture at this stage. For now, fans can anticipate the Haymitch-centric prequel while holding onto the possibility, bolstered by Hutcherson's readiness, that Peeta's story might not be over.
Q: Is a Hunger Games sequel featuring adult Peeta and Katniss confirmed?
No, there has been no official announcement from author Suzanne Collins or Lionsgate regarding a direct sequel to the original trilogy.
Q: Could Josh Hutcherson appear in the upcoming prequel, *Sunrise on the Reaping*?
The prequel focuses on Haymitch's youth. While the book's epilogue mentions older versions of Peeta and Katniss, any potential cameo appearance by Hutcherson in the film adaptation is unconfirmed speculation.
Q: When is the next *Hunger Games* movie being released?
The film adaptation of the prequel novel *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping* is scheduled for release in Fall 2026.
Your attachment to Peeta Mellark is shared by the actor himself, who is keen to explore the character's later life.
While the franchise's current focus is on prequels like *Sunrise on the Reaping*, the possibility of revisiting the original characters in the future remains open, partly thanks to the actors' willingness.
Stay tuned for updates on the *Hunger Games* franchise, both the upcoming prequel and any potential future developments.
Would you like to see a Hunger Games story focused on Peeta and Katniss after Mockingjay? Let us know!
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Source 1: Men's Journal
Source 2: Deadline (Link based on article text context)
Source 3: MovieWeb (Link based on article text context)
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