Imagine if THE HUNGER GAMES became a reality series. During the filming of the second installment in the saga, Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson were on set as fans counted the months until Catching Fire arrived in November 2013. In that waiting period, The CW floated a bold idea meant to fill the void: a Hunger Games inspired reality competition designed to translate the book world into a televised challenge. The concept aimed to blend the franchise’s mythic tone with the immediacy of unscripted television, offering a vivid clash between survival grit and televised storytelling that could captivate audiences in North America and beyond.
THE HUNT would place 12 two-person teams into a wilderness environment, stripped of water, food, and shelter for an entire month. They would face extreme conditions and rely on physical strength, survival know-how, and hunting skills to endure. The game would unfold with teams competing to outlast one another while managing alliances, scarce resources, and the ever-present risk of exposure to the elements. The competition would culminate in a cash prize for the pair that showed the sharpest combination of endurance, teamwork, and strategic thinking under pressure.
Entertainment Weekly released more information about THE HUNT, describing a game that tests endurance, wits, and durability as participants cope with harsh conditions and chase one another. The report highlighted how the format would emphasize real risk, authentic skill, and dramatic, camera-ready moments throughout the month-long ordeal. [EW]
It would feel similar to SURVIVOR in its core setup, but the Hunger Games angle could add a mythic layer that elevates the stakes. Viewers might wonder whether mentors like Haymitch Abernathy or handlers like Effie Trinket would appear on screen to guide contestants through tough choices and camera moments. With smart twists, this concept could resonate with fans of the trilogy and draw new viewers to the network, creating a bridge between loyal book readers and curious reality television fans alike.
What do you think about this new idea for a television show? Please share your thoughts in the comments so the discussion can begin among fans and newcomers alike.