Is a fresh face from down under ready to conquer Hollywood? Joseph Zada, an Australian actor, is poised to make a significant impact, stepping into the shoes of a beloved character in a highly anticipated prequel.
Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Zada's career, while still in its nascent stages, is already marked by a promising trajectory. His recent work includes a role in Stan's "Invisible Boys," which debuted in February 2025. He has also appeared in the Australian production "Total Control" and the 2019 film "Bilched." However, it is his casting in a major blockbuster that has truly catapulted him into the spotlight.
| Full Name | Joseph Zada |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 2005 (approximate) |
| Place of Birth | Sydney, Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Family | Jeremy Cumpston (Father), Hal Cumpston (Brother), Nici Cumpston (Aunt) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Known For | "Invisible Boys" (2025), "Total Control" (2019), "Bilched" (2019), "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" (2026) |
| Upcoming Projects | "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" |
| Agent | (Information not available publicly) |
| Official Website | IMDB Profile |
In 2025, Zada secured the coveted role of young Haymitch Abernathy in "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping," a film adaptation of Suzanne Collins' novel and a prequel to the original "Hunger Games" series. Scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, the film will see Zada portray Haymitch during the second Quarter Quell, a pivotal event in the franchise's lore. This casting has undoubtedly placed him firmly on Hollywood's radar, marking a significant career breakthrough.
The news of Zada's casting has generated considerable excitement. While his name may not have been widely known before, his portrayal of young Haymitch in "Sunrise on the Reaping" is certain to change that. The character, originally brought to life by Woody Harrelson in the "Hunger Games" books and subsequent films, will offer audiences a fresh perspective. The film promises to delve deeper into Haymitch's backstory, providing a nuanced portrayal of his character during a critical period.
Zada's involvement in "Sunrise on the Reaping" signifies a major opportunity. The prequel explores events that predate the original "Hunger Games" trilogy, providing context and depth to the established narrative. The film's focus on Haymitch, a character who later serves as a mentor to Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, offers a chance to explore his early experiences and the events that shaped his life.
The prequel's narrative explores the 50th Hunger Games, offering a glimpse into the earlier years of Panem and the Games' evolution. The production will allow audiences to witness the brutality of the Quarter Quell, a special edition of the Games with unique and often devastating rules. Zada's portrayal of young Haymitch will be instrumental in capturing the essence of this period.
The film's production is set to begin in July 2025, promising a fast-paced journey for the young star. Details about the cast, the plot, and the production's overall vision are gradually being revealed, fueling anticipation among fans. Whitney Peak will be playing Lenore Dove Baird in the movie.
Zada's casting is not just a career highlight, but also a testament to his acting talent. His performance will be measured against the legacy of Woody Harrelson, who played the older Haymitch in the original films. The role requires a mix of emotional depth, resilience, and a touch of the cynicism that Haymitch becomes known for.
The film adaptation of "Sunrise on the Reaping" is based on the fifth book in "The Hunger Games" novels by Suzanne Collins, which was released last month. The movie is directed by Nicholas Verso.
Zada's path to stardom is also interwoven with his background. He comes from a family with a significant presence in the acting world. His father, Jeremy Cumpston, and brother, Hal Cumpston, are also actors, and his aunt, Nici Cumpston, is a respected figure in the industry, creating an environment that fostered his passion for the performing arts. This family connection likely provided him with valuable insight and support as he pursued his career.
Zada's burgeoning career also includes a role in "Invisible Boys," which premiered in 2025. The film is a significant project, as it seeks to address the complex theme of sexual desires of gay and bisexual men. He also played the character, Charlie, in the movie, and it was a memorable experience for him.
Another significant early role for Zada was in the film "Bilched" (2019). This early role allowed him to showcase his potential. "Total Control" (2019), an Australian production, also provided valuable experience. "We Were Liars" (2025) adds another important credit to his resume. These early projects helped hone his skills and prepare him for the demands of a major role like Haymitch.
The success of "Sunrise on the Reaping" could significantly influence the trajectory of Zada's career. The film's global reach and the dedicated fanbase of "The Hunger Games" franchise offer a considerable platform for the young actor to showcase his abilities. A compelling portrayal of Haymitch could open doors to a multitude of future projects.
The film's release on November 20, 2026, marks a critical moment for Zada. The audience will be eagerly awaiting his performance. "Sunrise on the Reaping" has already generated significant buzz, and Zada's performance will likely be at the forefront of critical discussions and fan opinions.
The film's ensemble cast, including the aforementioned Whitney Peak, will contribute to the overall impact of the production. The camaraderie within the cast, which Zada has already experienced on other projects, should contribute to the film's success. The positive working environment should also inspire the young actor to take his career to new heights.
Zada's involvement in "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" is an inflection point in his career. It provides the potential for international recognition. The role of Haymitch has proven to be a role for an actor. With the film's release approaching, it's safe to say that Joseph Zada's name will be one to watch in the coming years.
