When recently questioned about possibly revisiting her iconic role as Katniss Everdeen, Jennifer Lawrence gave a fervent answer. Lawrence, at age 33, portrayed Katniss in the successful Hunger Games series from 2012 to 2015.
“Absolutely,” the Academy Award recipient mentioned to Variety this past June during the promotion of her latest film, No Hard Feelings. She added, “I’d fully embrace Katniss returning to my world.”
However, Lawrence’s enthusiasm doesn’t guarantee another chapter in the saga. For a sequel to emerge, the creative minds behind the movies, Nina Jacobson and Francis Lawrence, believe that Suzanne Collins, the author of Hunger Games, would need to craft another novel following her renowned 2008-10 trilogy. The final book, Mockingjay, was adapted into two movies in 2014 and 2015, posing a challenge for continuation.
Discussing the much-anticipated prequel, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Jacobson remarked, “If Suzanne feels compelled, she’ll draft a story.” She continued, “I deeply admire Katniss, and believe her narrative has reached its conclusion. I sense Suzanne thinks similarly. If her perspective shifts and she wishes to revisit Katniss, I’d be ecstatic. Nonetheless, reentering this universe with Francis and Suzanne would be an opportunity I’d seize, regardless of the protagonist.”
Francis Lawrence, the director of the final three Hunger Games installments who also took the reins for Songbirds & Snakes, shared similar sentiments. He stated, “Suzanne typically writes driven by a thematic purpose. If she felt inspired to extend Katniss’s tale due to a newfound theme, I’d be on board. Jennifer would likely join as well. The motivation primarily stems from Suzanne’s vision.”
The cautious stance of Jacobson and Francis Lawrence is logical. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part II not only wrapped up Katniss’s journey (concluding with her eliminating President Coin and observing the downfall of President Snow before gaining her liberty) but also provided a glimpse into her tranquil future with spouse Peeta (played by Josh Hutcherson) and their offspring in District 12.
Yet, given the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, a sequel or the resurgence of a beloved character is always a possibility.
