Succession star Kieran Culkin has officially been cast as a young Caesar Flickerman in Lionsgate's upcoming film adaptation The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, confirming months of industry speculation.
Lionsgate Confirms Casting Decision
Lionsgate made the official announcement today via X/Twitter, revealing that Culkin will portray Panem's flamboyant game show host in next year's highly anticipated prequel. Fans have debated potential casting choices since rumors began circulating earlier this year. With this confirmation now official, attention shifts to Lionsgate's ability to faithfully adapt Suzanne Collins' latest novel.
Connecting the Hunger Games Timeline
This marks the second prequel adaptation for the franchise, set between 2023's The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and the original Jennifer Lawrence-led The Hunger Games series from the 2010s. Culkin assumes the role previously masterfully played by Stanley Tucci in the original films, presenting an exciting opportunity to reimagine this iconic character's younger years.
Caesar Flickerman.
— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) May 21, 2025
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping - in theaters November 20, 2026.
Why Culkin Is Perfect for the Role
"Kieran's magnetic screen presence and natural charm perfectly embody Caesar Flickerman, that captivating yet unsettling host of Panem's most disturbing entertainment," stated Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erin Westerman. "While Stanley Tucci created an unforgettable performance, Kieran will deliver a completely fresh interpretation."
Culkin's critically acclaimed performances - particularly as Roman Roy in Succession and his BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Academy Award-winning role in A Real Pain (2024) - demonstrate his remarkable range. The actor brings decades of experience from childhood roles in classics like Home Alone (1990) and Father of the Bride (1991) to his current status as one of Hollywood's most sought-after performers. His razor-sharp wit makes him an inspired choice to portray Panem's most famous television personality.
Star-Studded Cast and Release Date
Mark your calendars for November 20, 2026, when The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters. The star-powered ensemble includes Ralph Fiennes reprising his role as President Snow, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, and Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy, among other notable talents.
