Lionsgate dropped a brief teaser for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping at CinemaCon, and fans are buzzing! The teaser, featuring a snake skin and molten liquid, hints at a major event coming for fans of the beloved series. This also means sets are being built, and casting is underway. I’ve seen quite a few fan castings for Young Haymitch, who this story centers around. The biggest issue is that fans are casting 30-year-olds to play the lead character! Haymitch is 16 during his reaping. Stop it.

Haymitch Abernathy was introduced in the original The Hunger Games Trilogy. He is often described as cynical, sarcastic, and bitter, and was masterfully brought to life by Woody Harrelson. In The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, young Haymitch is described as more energetic, confident, and full of promise compared to the jaded version we meet in the original series.

So, when choosing my options for the young version of the iconic character, I’m looking at age and innocence. I want someone who hasn’t had a horrible day in their life. Those who look young and fancy free that you find yourself worried about and rooting for. This way, the characters’ turn will pack a punch. These are in no particular order.

Walker Scobell (16 years old)

The Percy Jackson actor, Walker Scobell, already had a huge franchise under his belt. The character of Percy is similar to that of Haymitch in his bright-eyed hopefulness that goes up against the darkest odds and comes out victorious. His youthful appearance and natural charm make him an ideal choice for portraying the kind of character whose eventual loss of innocence will resonate deeply with the audience.

Jacob Tremblay (18 years old)

Known for his standout performances in Room and The Book of Henry, Jacob Tremblay has demonstrated an impressive range, especially for someone so young. While young Haymitch is confident, energetic, and full of potential, there’s a quiet intensity to him that Tremblay can convey effectively, showing the audience both his strength and the vulnerability that will eventually be exploited by the Games.

Jack Champion (20 years old)

The Freaky Tales, Scream, and Avatar: Way of the Water actor, Jack Champion, would be a great choice for young Haymitch because of his strong acting range and ability to bring both charm and vulnerability to his characters. He has the kind of fresh-faced, energetic presence that would make him believable as a victor-in-the-making. He is someone full of potential and charm, which contrasts with the jaded, sarcastic version of Haymitch seen in the original series.

Jaeden Martell (22 years old)

Jaeden Martell, recognized for his roles in It and Knives Out, has shown he’s adept at portraying complex, multi-dimensional characters. He stands out as one of my softer choices for playing the future, jaded mentor, Haymitch. I love the contrast that comes with casting someone like Martell. Something is intriguing about seeing an actor known for more vulnerable or nuanced roles who will eventually transform into the cynical, alcoholic figure that Haymitch eventually becomes. It’s a dynamic shift that adds an interesting layer to the character’s evolution.

Maxwell Jenkins (19 years old)

Maxwell Jenkins is no stranger to the Sci-Fi genre, having starred in Lost in Space, as well as the upcoming The Bondmans on Prime Video. Jenkins’s ability to convey inner conflict and emotional intensity would allow him to bring complexity to Haymitch’s character early on. He’s already proven himself as a powerful contender, bringing a mix of angst and strength that would make him more than capable of handling whatever the Games throw his way.

Levi Miller (22 years old)

Known for his roles in A Wrinkle in Time and Kraven the Hunter, Levi Miller possesses the talent required to convincingly portray a character from District 12. His natural screen presence and ability to project self-assurance make him an ideal choice for playing a young Haymitch. He is someone with the determination and skill to win the Games.

Tanner Buchanan (26 years old)

Cobra Kai alum Tanner Buchanan is on the older end of my list, but he still plays high schoolers convincingly. So, I accept. Buchanan has already demonstrated his remarkable ability to portray characters who are both confident and conflicted. This helps to make him a natural fit for the role of a young Haymitch before the trauma of the Hunger Games turns him into the cynical, hardened man we meet in the original series.

Gavin Casalegno (25 years old)

While I’m Team Conrad, I do think Gavin Casalegno could be an interesting choice for young Haymitch. The character is full of promise, confidence, and skill. Casalegno has the swagger and charm that would serve him well in capturing Haymitch’s winning potential. Though he’s on the older end of my age range, Casalegno’s natural charisma could definitely be an asset in bringing the character’s early confidence and determination to life as he takes on the Games.

Charlie Gillespie (26 years old)

Charlie Gillespie won over fans with his role in the cancelled-too-soon Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms. He has an effortless charm and likability. These are qualities that are essential when casting the perfect version of Haymitch before he becomes the cynical, world-weary mentor we know. Gillespie’s natural charisma would bring the confident, promising side of Haymitch to life, offering a great foundation for his eventual transformation.

So, who’s on your list? Comment and let us know! Stay tuned to THS for more The Hunger Games updates!