After Zada’s casting was unveiled, Jacobson spoke to Deadline about the arduous process of finding “a young actor with the skill and imagination to embody young Haymitch.” She added that Zada “prepared like crazy and stole our hearts.”

Zada, an actor in the upcoming "East of Eden" adaptation, will star as the young Haymitch Abernathy, originally played by Woody Harrelson.

Mckenna Grace will play Maysilee Donner in the film adaptation of "Sunrise on the Reaping" premiering in theaters in 2026.