Kieran Culkin Confirmed to Play Caesar Flickerman in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping

Kieran Culkin, renowned for his role in the hit series *Succession*, has officially been cast as a young Caesar Flickerman in Lionsgate's upcoming film adaptation of *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*. This news, confirmed by Lionsgate on X/Twitter, puts an end to months of speculation and excitement among fans. The role of Caesar Flickerman, the flamboyant and charismatic TV host of the Hunger Games, had been a topic of fervent discussion, and now, with Culkin's casting, the anticipation for the movie has reached new heights.

*Sunrise on the Reaping* is the latest prequel in the *Hunger Games* series, set to captivate audiences after the success of 2023's *The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes* and before the events depicted in the Jennifer Lawrence-led *Hunger Games movies* of the 2010s. Stanley Tucci's portrayal of Caesar Flickerman in the original series set a high bar, and Culkin is now tasked with bringing a fresh yet respectful interpretation to this iconic character.

"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 performances have solidified his status as a versatile and captivating actor. His portrayal of Roman Roy in *Succession* and Benji Kaplan in *A Real Pain*—which earned him a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award—demonstrate his ability to command the screen. Fans may also recall his early roles in films like *Father of the Bride* and *Home Alone*, where he shared the screen with his brother, Macaulay Culkin. His sharp wit and charisma make him an ideal choice for the role of Caesar Flickerman, perfectly aligning with the character's larger-than-life persona.

*The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping* is scheduled to hit theaters on November 20, 2026, and will adapt Suzanne Collins' novel of the same name. Joining Culkin in the cast are Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, and Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy, among other notable actors. This ensemble promises to bring *Sunrise on the Reaping* to life with the same intensity and depth that fans have come to expect from the *Hunger Games* series.