Image Credit: Murray Close/Lionsgate
Joseph Zada is now gaining traction in Hollywood. The budding thespian is creating quite the buzz as the latest addition to The Hunger Games realm, embodying a youthful Haymitch Abernathy in the forthcoming prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping. While he might be unfamiliar to U.S. viewers, Zada has already made a splash in his native Australia with remarkable turns and an ever-growing catalog of work.
From his flourishing profession to his notable partners, here’s everything you should be aware of about Zada below.
He’s An Aussie
Zada, aged 20, was born and spent his formative years in Sydney, Australia.
He’s Already Garnering Acclaim on TV
Before rising to international prominence, Zada — who is repped by CAA, Untitled Entertainment, RGM, and Goodman Genow — achieved recognition on highly regarded Australian television shows like Total Control and Invisible Boys. In the latter, he takes on the role of Charlie, the protagonist in the Stan Original Series, which is based on Holden Sheppard’s popular book.
His Pivotal Part Is in The Hunger Games Prequel
Zada plays the character of a young Haymitch Abernathy in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a prequel taking place 24 years prior to the narrative of Jennifer Lawrence‘s character, Katniss Everdeen. He anchors the ensemble alongside Whitney Peak (Gossip Girl), portraying Lenore Dove Baird, a fellow contender and Haymitch’s love interest.
“The Hunger Games series has consistently been a springboard for exceptional young performers, and Jo and Whitney carry on that heritage with unbelievable passion, nuance, and intensity,” Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman communicated in a statement, further noting that they “stood out” due to their “skill” and “the sincere emotion they imparted to these renowned characters.”
“Haymitch has consistently been a favorite among fans, and the tale of his origins is one of the most eagerly awaited within the franchise,” she went on to say. “We are eager for the fanbase to witness the narrative that sculpted one of the most captivating figures in the saga.”
He’s Collaborated With Celebrated Directors
Zada is scheduled to appear in East of Eden, a limited Netflix show brought to life by Zoe Kazan, featuring Florence Pugh and Mike Faist.
He’s Secured Additional Important Projects
Besides Sunrise on the Reaping, Zada will star in Amazon Prime Video’s version of We Were Liars, a widely read YA book. The series is slated to premiere in the month of June.