Elle Fanning has officially joined the cast of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, stepping into the role of Effie Trinket — a character originally brought to life by Elizabeth Banks in the franchise’s earlier films. At 27, Fanning brings a new energy to the iconic Capitol escort in this upcoming prequel.
The story unfolds 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy, the first winner from District 12. Joseph Zada leads the film as Haymitch, with a strong supporting cast that includes Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor, Ben Wang, and Ralph Fiennes.
Lionsgate has shared its enthusiasm over Fanning’s addition, praising her distinctive approach and the dynamic edge she’s expected to bring to the role. The film reunites director Francis Lawrence and producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, with Billy Ray writing the screenplay and Cameron MacConomy on board as executive producer.
Based on Suzanne Collins’ latest novel, the prequel has already seen commercial success in book form and is poised to continue the legacy of one of Lionsgate’s top-grossing franchises — which has collectively earned billions at the global box office.
Fanning’s recent work includes portraying Sylvie Russo in the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. She also has a busy slate ahead with roles in Sentimental Value, Margo’s Got Money Troubles, and Predator: Badlands.
