Peter Dinklage Joins Hunger Games Prequel Movie

Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) has been cast as Casca Highbottom in The Hunger Games prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, according to Deadline. The next chapter in the Hunger Games movie franchise will arrive in theaters on November 17, 2023.

Dinklage joins a cast also featuring Tom Blyth as young Coriolanus Snow, Rachel Zegler as tribute Lucy Gray Baird, and Hunter Schafer as Tigris Snow. Writers for the film include creator Suzanne Collins (writing a treatment), plus Michael Arndt (Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire) and Michael Lesslie (Assassin's Creed) working to adapt her story. The film will be directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence, who will also co-produce alongside fellow franchise veterans Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson.

"With production underway, we couldn't be more excited about the way this cast has come together and thrilled to be welcoming Peter Dinklage to Panem," Nathan Kahane, president of Lionsgate's Motion Picture Group, said in a statement. "Peter is not just a fan favorite actor who brings a commanding presence to every part he plays. He is one of the best actors alive. He will bring a formidable, charismatic authority to the important role of the dean of the Academy."

A synopsis for the film reads: "In this return to The Hunger Games, years before he would become the tyrannical President of Panem, 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow sees a chance for a change in fortunes when he is chosen to be a mentor to Lucy Gray Baird, the girl tribute from impoverished District 12."