Top YA Franchise of the 2010s Triumphs on Peacock Before 2026 Sequel
Younger audiences witnessed a remarkable rise in young adult (YA) film franchises during the 2010s, a trend that has yet to be matched in the 2020s. This surge was primarily fueled by the successes of The Twilight Saga and the Harry Potter films, which began in the previous decade. Among the standout franchises of the 2010s, The Hunger Games has reclaimed its prominence on streaming services, particularly on Peacock, ahead of its anticipated sequel set for release in 2026.
The Hunger Games Returns to Streaming Success
All five films in The Hunger Games franchise became available on Peacock on January 14. Their debut on the platform quickly led to significant viewer interest. Currently, the original four films occupy four positions on Peacock’s U.S. Top 10 streaming chart:
- The Hunger Games – Ranked No. 5
- Catching Fire – Ranked No. 6
- Mockingjay Part 1 – Ranked No. 7
- Mockingjay Part 2 – Ranked No. 9
The only installment not hitting the Top 10 is The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. This recent addition focuses on a young Coriolanus Snow during the 10th annual Hunger Games.
The Appeal of The Hunger Games Franchise
The consistent popularity of The Hunger Games is notable. It pioneered the YA dystopian genre in the 2010s, influencing other series like Divergent and The Maze Runner. Several factors contributed to its success:
- A large, dedicated fanbase stemming from Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novels.
- A relatable protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, who defied typical YA female lead stereotypes.
- A richly constructed dystopian world that allowed for relevant social commentary.
This combination of elements enabled The Hunger Games to fill the cultural void left by other major franchises like Harry Potter and Twilight.
Future of The Hunger Games Franchise
The franchise’s resurgence is further fueled by the release of The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes in 2023, which grossed an impressive $349 million worldwide. Interest continues to grow as Collins is set to release a new novel titled Sunrise on the Reaping in 2025. This book will be adapted into a sixth Hunger Games film, scheduled for theatrical release on November 20, 2026.
The return of The Hunger Games to the forefront of pop culture signifies a continued influence in the YA film landscape. As anticipation builds for the upcoming movie, fans are eager to see how this franchise evolution unfolds.
