Aspiring actor Salimou Thiam, who once graced the school stage, now reaches for the lights of Hollywood.
19-Year-Old Actor Salimou Thiam Lands Role in "The Hunger Games"
Salimou Thiam, a rising star in the German acting scene, has landed a role in the highly anticipated film adaptation of "The Hunger Games." The dystopian film series, which launched Jennifer Lawrence to stardom, is set to return to theaters in November 2026.
The news came on May 18, 2025, when Thiam received a call from his agent about a casting for the film. The director of the production, Francis Lawrence, will helm the project. The filming is taking place in northern Spain.
Thiam's role in the film is his first appearance in a feature film. The casting director, Jacqueline Rietz, described Thiam as a "young, exciting actor." The actor will shoot a short film in Bielefeld with actors from the local city theater in the coming weeks.
Thiam is no stranger to the spotlight, having gained popularity among children for his role as BMX rider and rapper Ben in the teen spin-off of "Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten" called "Uferpark." He was initially overwhelmed by recognition on the street, but it was a great feeling to receive some form of recognition for his work.
Thiam's acting career began with school theater and led to a role in a Hollywood franchise's first feature film. As a child, he was captivated by the role of young Simba in "The Lion King" and joined his school's theater club, eventually landing his first leading role.
"The Hunger Games" is a trilogy by American author Suzanne Collins about teenagers competing in an arena for survival as a rebellion against an oppressive regime. The film will also star Ralph Fiennes, Glenn Close, and Jesse Plemons.
Thiam is currently filming an episode of the RTL+ crime series "Behringer and the Dead" in Bavaria. He also has big ambitions and is working on more projects.
During a recent visit to the tourist attraction Sparrenburg in Bielefeld, Thiam greeted a photographer's child warmly. His mother, who believed he was an entertainer, encouraged his performances at events like weddings and birthdays.
In addition to "The Hunger Games," Collins has written two more novels set before the events of the series, with the second, "Sunrise on the Reaping," currently being filmed in Spain. Thiam plays the character named Clayton from District 9 in the film.
Thiam's role in "The Hunger Games" is a (albeit small) speaking role in a Hollywood blockbuster. Fans of the series are eagerly awaiting the film's release and the chance to see Thiam on the big screen.
