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Hollywood News Updated Mar 30, 2025

I would happily play Peeta again: Josh Hutcherson on his possible return to Hunger Games franchise

Josh Hutcherson has expressed strong interest in returning as Peeta Mellark if Suzanne Collins writes another Hunger Games installment. The actor praised the franchise's storytelling and his character's depth during a recent fan event. His comments follow news of Collins' upcoming prequel novel, Sunrise on the Reaping, set for adaptation in 2026. Meanwhile, Hutcherson is preparing to reprise his role in Five Nights at Freddy's 2 next year.

Washington DC, March 29

Actor Josh Hutcherson expreosh Hutcherson on his possible return to Hunger Games franchisessed his interest in reprising his role as Peeta Mellark in Hunger Games if given a chance, reported Deadline.

Hutcherson said that he would happily play the famous role of Peeta Mellark in future instalments of Hunger Games if author Suzanne Collins gives her character a worthy return.

"I would happily play Peeta again. The story is incredible. The Hunger Games was incredible. I think Peeta's an incredible person to get to bring to life. I'm curious to know what happens between when they have their family and when the story ends, just to understand what happened in the world, how they got to that place. But I'm down. If you can talk to Suzanne Collins and tell her to write a book, I'm in. Sign me up," said Hutcherson at Dream It Con in Paris, as quoted by Deadline.

Hutcherson's comment comes after Collins released the fifth book in the franchise, Sunrise on the Reaping, which marks the second prequel after 2020's The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. A feature adaptation is set for a fall 2026 release, reported the outlet.

The actor previously portrayed Peeta in The Hunger Games (2012), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013), The Hunger Games: Mockingjay -- Part 1 (2014) and Part 2 (2015), alongside Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen and Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne.

The actor is set to be next seen in the sequel of the horror film Five Nights at Freddy. It will be released on December 5, 2025. Hutcherson reprises his role as night security guard Mike Schmidt in Five Nights at Freddy's 2, reuniting with director Emma Tammi and co-star Matthew Lillard.

The first film was a surprise sensation that weathered poor reviews and a day-and-date release on Peacock to land Blumhouse's top opening of all time with USD 78 million, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

The feature from director Emma Tammi was based on the video game and counted creator Scott Cawthon as its screenwriter.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Sarah K.

I would LOVE to see Peeta return! The original trilogy was so special, and Josh brought such warmth to the character. Fingers crossed Suzanne Collins writes another book! 🤞

Marcus T.

While I appreciate Josh's enthusiasm, I think the story ended perfectly. Not every franchise needs endless sequels. Sometimes it's better to leave things as they are.

Javier R.

Peeta was my favorite character growing up! Josh's performance was so genuine. Would be amazing to see what happens with Katniss and Peeta's family after Mockingjay.

Emma L.

Honestly more excited for Five Nights at Freddy's 2 though 😅 Josh was perfect in that role too! But yeah, I'd watch anything Hunger Games related.

Trevor S.

The Hunger Games universe has so much potential for more stories. Would be interesting to see how Panem rebuilds after the war. Josh seems really passionate about the character too.

Amira P.

Respectful criticism: I love Josh but I think the franchise should focus on new characters like the prequels are doing. The original cast's story feels complete to me.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Reader Voices

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