Game of Thrones’ Peter Dinklage joins cast of new Hunger Games prequel

The much-anticipated Hunger Games prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, has just announced its latest cast member – Peter Dinklage.

The Emmy-award winning actor will play Casca Highbottom, the dean of The Academy, an elite school for wealthy children in the Capitol.

Based on Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same name, the series will follow President Snow from the original story (played by Tom Blyth) during his youth.

The story will be set many years before the events of the original books and films – long before the likes of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark are born, and long before Snow becomes President of Panem.

With the 10th annual Hunger Games approaching, Snow is assigned to mentor Baird (played by Rachel Zegler), a young girl from the impoverished District 12.

The arrival of Dinklage, 53, to the production was announced by Nathan Kahane, president of Lionsgate’s Motion Picture Group.

‘With production underway, we couldn’t be more excited about the way this cast has come together and thrilled to be welcoming Peter Dinklage to Panem,’ he said.

He continued: ‘Peter is not just a fan favourite actor who brings a commanding presence to every part he plays. He is one of the best actors alive.’

‘He will bring a formidable, charismatic authority to the important role of the dean of The Academy.’

Director Francis Lawrence added: ‘Dean Highbottom is one of the most powerful people in Snow’s life.’

He contined: ‘As the austere and vindictive face of the games, he sets the rules that will determine every aspect of Coriolanus’s fate. I’m thrilled that Peter will be bringing him to life.’

Dinklage won four Emmys for his portrayal of Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones – a character he played for all eight of that show’s seasons after being the first person to be cast on the show.