'The Hunger Games' Movies: Will Jennifer Lawrence and Natalie Dormer Remain Co-Stars in Prequel?

While some fans have remained hopeful of a ‘Hunger Games’ prequel, certain cast members of the widely popular dystopian film franchise have shared their sentiments regarding their interest in the rumored project as well as their possible involvement.

‘Hunger Games’ star Jennifer Lawrence confirmed that she will not be participating in any franchise-related development despite rising to fame after playing the role of Katniss Everdeen.

While promoting her film, ‘Joy,’ the award-winning actress shared that she “wouldn’t be involved… I think it’s too soon. They’ve got to let the body get cold, in my opinion.”

Lawrence’s comments come after a statement from the vice chairman of entertainment at Lionsgate, Michael Burns, was released. Burns expressed interest in coming up with a prequel to the hit franchise which would place more emphasis on the different districts of Panem.

According to Burns, there remains ample material to use in the novels penned by Suzanne Collins to develop another set of new movies. He also shared how he strongly believes that the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise could “live on and on and on” in such a way as the hit ‘Harry Potter’ franchise.

While the award-winning actress’ decision to not be involved in any prequel comes as a disappointment for many fans, her character’s story arc in ‘Hunger Games: Mockingjay- Part 2’ has already reached a pivotal conclusion.

Meanwhile, co-star Natalie Dormer, who took on the role of Cressida in the movies, expressed interest in expanding the franchise. She also praised Collins for her “bravery” and “imagination” when it comes to creating the world of ‘Hunger Games.

She wrote such a complex world and yet at the same time had so many scenes that deal with all the things we're struggling with our own time and zeitgeist,” Dormer said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. She made her enthusiasm for the prequel known by admitting that she would be thrilled to return to the franchise if upcoming projects will come up.

“I'm sure if Suzanne were to get inspired and decide there's another story that's important for her to tell that exists within the world of Panem and whether about the Dark Days, another character, or another set of Games, whatever that could be, I'm sure it would be great. And I'd love to be involved, absolutely,” Dormer added.