‘Stranger Things’ Star Maya Hawke Enters 'The Hunger Games’ Arena in New Prequel Film

Published 05/14/2025, 4:38 PM EDT

When Maya Hawke first burst onto Stranger Things as Robin, she did not just make an entrance—she owned it. With her snarky one-liners and wicked wit, she quickly became a fan favorite. As Robin, she quickly went from an under-the-radar addition to a standout star, proving she had what it took to survive the mayhem of Hawkins. But what if this was just the warm-up? Now, she is stepping into a role where only the toughest thrive, and there is no guarantee of survival.

From voicing Anxiety in Inside Out 2 to playing the strong in Maestro, Hawke is now about to take on something darker, fiercer, and with a serious twist. It is about navigating a fatal arena, where the rules are brutal, and only the fiercest make it through!

Maya Hawke breaks new ground for a world where only the vicious survive

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Could this be Panem’s most brutal Hunger Games yet? Maya Hawke is officially joining the cast of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping as Wiress, a former victor and District 12 mentor. As reported by Deadline, Hawke joins forces with Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak, who play a young Haymitch Abernathy and Lenore Dove Baird, respectively. With 48 tributes and a lethal twist, this Second Quarter Quell is not holding back—and neither is the cast lineup.

The prequel, based on Suzanne Collins’ latest novel released on March 18, is times 24 years before Katniss’ rebellion. It follows 16-year-old Haymitch as he faces a distorted iteration of the Games designed to break even the strongest minds. Returning director Francis Lawrence leads the project, with Billy Ray writing the screenplay. Also starring Jesse Plemons, Mckenna Grace, and Kelvin Harrison Jr., the film is expected to hit theaters on November 20, 2026.

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From the witty, brash Robin in Stranger Things to the cunning strategist in the upcoming The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, Maya Hawke has only begun to show her range. Despite her recently debated comments on being nepo baby, she is undeniably on a hot streak, set to dive into a role where emotion, mystery, and complexity collide—unlocking a side of her fans are yet to see.

Maya Hawke steps into the mind of a forgotten muse

What happens when the daughter of a literary icon burns with ambition of her own? That is the mystery at the heart of Lucia, the upcoming psychological biopic where Maya Hawke takes the lead. As reported exclusively by Deadline, Hawke will play Lucia Joyce—an aspiring dancer and the daughter of James Joyce—opposite Rhys Ifans. The film is written by Michael Kinirons, with The Veterans launching sales at Cannes this season.

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The film chronicles Lucia's emotional journey as she battles to break free from her father’s shadow while pursuing her dream of becoming a dancer. Reportedly filmed in Trieste, Zurich, and Paris, the film captures her struggles and artistic ambition. With Aisling Walsh's direction and casting by Amy Kate Dolan, Lucia is set to unveil the heartbreaking life of a muse whose talent is eclipsed by glory.

“Not deserving it”- ‘Stranger Things’ Nepo Baby Maya Hawke Keeps Her Privilege in Check, Ahead of Final Season

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Are you excited to see Maya Hawke as Wiress in the upcoming The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping prequel? Let us know in the comments!

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Akshaya Deeksha

461 articles

Akshaya Deeksha is an Entertainment Writer at NetflixJunkie. With her passion to explore the evolving world of entertainment and her journalistic sense, she specializes in cinematic storytelling and Hollywood developments. Her expertise in lifestyle writing allows her to connect with readers through relatable content.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

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