From Game of Thrones to a similarly bloody game, news comes that Emmy-winning actor Peter Dinklage is joining the growing ensemble cast of Lionsgate’s Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.

Dinklage will play Casca Highbottom, Deadline reports, the dean of the Academy. Francis Lawrence, who directed the franchise’s Catching Fire, and Mockingjay Parts One and Two, is helming the film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel.

“Dean Highbottom is one of the most powerful people in Snow’s life,” Lawrence explains. “As the austere and vindictive face of the games, he sets the rules that will determine every aspect of Coriolanus’ fate. I’m thrilled that Peter Dinklage will be bringing him to life.”

“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,” said Lionsgate President Nathan Kahane. “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.”

Dinklage stars opposite Tom Blyth as the young Coriolanus Snow, Rachel Zegler as tribute Lucy Gray Baird, and Hunter Schafer as Tigris Snow.

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is set to debut in cinemas on November 17th, 2023.