Kieran Culkin, renowned for his standout performance in *Succession*, has been officially cast as the young Caesar Flickerman in Lionsgate's eagerly awaited adaptation of *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*. The announcement, which put an end to months of speculation, was made today on X/Twitter, confirming Culkin's role as the vibrant and eccentric TV host in the forthcoming film set to hit theaters next year.

The casting news has been a hot topic among fans ever since rumors began circulating earlier this year. With the official confirmation, excitement is building for Lionsgate's latest foray into the Hunger Games universe. *Sunrise on the Reaping* serves as another prequel in the franchise, unfolding after the events of 2023's *The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes* and well before the original *Hunger Games* films starring Jennifer Lawrence, which concluded in 2015. Culkin steps into the iconic role previously brought to life by Stanley Tucci, setting the stage for a fresh yet familiar portrayal of Caesar Flickerman.

"Kieran's scene-stealing presence and undeniable charm are perfect for Caesar Flickerman, the sickeningly watchable host of Panem's darkest spectacle," said Erin Westerman, Co-President of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, in a statement. "Stanley Tucci made Caesar unforgettable—and now Kieran will make the role entirely his own."

Caesar Flickerman.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – in theaters November 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/hggGysk4Nd

— The Hunger Games (@TheHungerGames) May 21, 2025

Culkin's recent accolades include his critically acclaimed role as Roman Roy in *Succession* and Benji Kaplan in *A Real Pain*, earning him a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award. His versatility as an actor shines through from his early days in films like *Father of the Bride* and *Home Alone*, where he starred alongside his brother Macaulay Culkin. Culkin's knack for quick wit and captivating performances makes him an ideal choice to embody the dystopian TV host in *Sunrise on the Reaping*.

Set to premiere on November 20, 2026, *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping* will bring Suzanne Collins' novel to life, featuring a stellar cast including Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, and Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy. Fans can look forward to an engaging cinematic experience as this latest chapter in the Hunger Games saga unfolds.