West Side Story breakout star Rachel Zegler has joined the cast of the “Hunger Games” prequel, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”.
It is based on Suzanne Collins’ book, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and serves as an origin story of Coriolanus Snow, portrayed in the original film series by Donald Sutherland, and the Hunger Games event.
Zegler will play the role of Lucy Gray Baird, a tribute from District 12, who Snow is assigned to mentor through the game.
The character is described as being a charismatic young girl who earns the attention and adoration of Panem through her singing voice.
The movie will also feature the "Billy the Kid" star Tom Blyth, who was recently announced to be playing the young Coriolanus Snow.
Filmmaker Francis Lawrence, who directed “Catching Fire” and both “Mockingjay” movies, will return to direct.
Moreover, Collins will write the movie’s treatment, while Michael Arndt will adapt the screenplay.
Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson will serve as producers.
“The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” will hit theaters on November 17, 2023.
Zegler first gained attention when she beat out what is reported to be thousands of other actresses for the role of Maria in Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story".
The iconic musical was the actress' first professional acting role, and she has since been cast in the highly anticipated superhero movie "Shazam! Fury of the Gods", and the Skydance animated movie "Spellbound".
She is currently filming "Disney's Snow White", a live-action remake of the classic movie where she is playing the titular Disney princess.
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