Tom Blyth Teases Return as President Snow: Excitement Builds for “Sunrise on The Reaping” Release

The upcoming 2026 prequel to the Hunger Games series has fans excited, and Tom Blyth, who portrayed a young Coriolanus Snow, has spoken about his involvement in the franchise moving forward. Although Blyth has been in the acting scene for over ten years with roles in films like Benediction and Scott and Syd, it was his role as the 18-year-old Coriolanus in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes that really made his mark in Hollywood.

Donald Sutherland famously brought the character of the Panem president to life in the original Hunger Games films. Blyth only took on the role once, but his portrayal quickly captivated audiences with its depth and complexity. In the forthcoming prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, Ralph Fiennes is set to assume the role, as the story requires an older Snow in his 50s.

In an interview with Decider, Blyth discussed whether he would appear in the new movie, possibly in a flashback. He confirmed, “I am not involved in the new one. Sorry to disappoint.” He added, however, that he remains optimistic, noting, “You never know if we’ve seen the last of Coriolanus’s story from my perspective. We follow Suzanne Collins’ guidance. Lionsgate won’t produce a film unless she writes the book first. If she chooses to explore my character’s timeline again, I’d definitely be interested in returning.” He further expressed his support for the team, “If not, I’m just thrilled to see them succeed.“

The discussion then shifted to whether Fiennes had reached out to him for insights on playing Snow. Blyth humorously noted, “He hasn’t reached out, and honestly, I’m a bit shocked he hasn’t asked for my advice, though I’m clearly joking as there’s nothing I could tell him that would be of help. It’s actually quite amazing to see one of my idols, whom I’ve admired for years, play a role I once did.“

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes centered on Snow and unveiled the events that shaped him into the ruthless leader he later becomes. The original prequel was set during the 10th Hunger Games, won by District 12’s Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler).

Conversely, Sunrise on the Reaping jumps ahead to the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, noted for its exceptional brutality, with Haymitch Abernathy (Joseph Zada) emerging victorious among 47 competitors.

Although the Hunger Games saga seemed complete with Katniss Everdeen’s story, Suzanne Collins surprised everyone with the debut of the first prequel novel. Shortly after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes was released, a prequel focusing on Haymitch’s games was announced, with Lionsgate quickly moving forward with a film adaptation.

Both franchise director Francis Lawrence and producer Nina Jacobson are keen to continue the series, contingent upon Collins writing more books. As of now, there’s no confirmation of further books in the Hunger Games universe. Sunrise on the Reaping will be the last film to feature a District 12 victor, marking it as the fourth from the district. Nonetheless, there is strong fan demand for additional prequels focusing on characters like District 4’s Finnick Odair and District 7’s Joanna Mason.

While Blyth will not be reprising his role as Snow in the near future, original stars Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are set to return as District 12 victors Katniss and Peeta Mellark, respectively. This marks the first time in over a decade that the pair will revisit their roles, likely tied to the epilogue of the novel.

Meanwhile, Blyth is involved in Netflix’s upcoming movie People We Meet on Vacation, and is awaiting the release of his film Watch Dog, currently in post-production.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release in cinemas on November 20, 2026.