Oscar-winning actor Kieran Culkin recently lightheartedly advised Hunger Games fans to “lower those expectations” regarding his upcoming role as Caesar Flickerman, a character originally portrayed by Stanley Tucci in the film adaptations of Suzanne Collins’ acclaimed book series.
During a TikTok interaction where he was signing Playbills for his current Broadway show Glengarry Glen Ross, Culkin humorously dismissed a fan’s compliment by stating, “I don’t think so, lower those expectations, please.” His candid demeanor continues to shine through, as later in an interview with Entertainment Tonight Online, he playfully expressed surprise at his own comments, saying, “Did I say that? F—.”
Known for his notable roles in Succession and A Real Pain, Culkin has a reputation for a carefree perspective on acting, even as he approaches an impressive EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) status. He is set to star alongside an impressive cast in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, featuring Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket and Ralph Fiennes as President Snow.
This eagerly awaited film is a continuation of the popular dystopian series, following 2023’s The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, which highlighted the early days of the Hunger Games through the lens of a young protagonist. In Sunrise on the Reaping, the narrative focuses on Haymitch Abernathy’s backstory, with Joseph Zada taking on the character initially played by Woody Harrelson.
Directed by Francis Lawrence and adapted from Collins’ recently published novel, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. The film continues to generate excitement among fans, showcasing Culkin’s fearless attitude toward an iconic role in a much-loved franchise.