The resurgence of Pennywise, the terrifying clown from Stephen King’s novel “It,” has captivated audiences for decades. After Tim Curry’s iconic portrayal in the 1990 miniseries, a new era of fear was ushered in with the 2017 movie “It” and its sequel “It Chapter Two.” Now, HBO is delving into Pennywise’s origins with the upcoming prequel series, “Welcome to Derry.”
Scheduled for release on HBO Max in the fall of 2025, “Welcome to Derry” is set to consist of nine chilling episodes. The delay in its premiere was due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike in 2023, building anticipation among horror aficionados.
Fans of the franchise will be thrilled to know that Bill Skarsgård will reprise his role as Pennywise in the series. Joining him are a talented ensemble cast including Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, Taylour Paige, and more, promising a riveting performance.
Taking viewers back to the eerie town of Derry in the 1960s, “Welcome to Derry” will explore the origins of Pennywise and the haunting events that plagued the town. Showrunners Andrés Muschietti, Bárbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs are set to unravel the mysteries of Pennywise’s emergence in Derry.
While specific plot details remain under wraps, the series is expected to delve into the dark history of Derry, shedding light on the malevolent presence that lurks beneath the surface. As teased in the trailer, a group of children will face the wrath of Pennywise, mirroring the terror seen in the films.
Andrés Muschietti has hinted at the series’ narrative, which will draw from the interludes in the original book. These interludes will explore Mike Hanlon’s research into the town’s grim past, hinting at catastrophic events tied to Pennywise’s awakening.
The trailer for “Welcome to Derry” offers a glimpse into the spine-chilling atmosphere of the series, setting the stage for a gripping narrative. With the promise of unraveling the mysteries surrounding Pennywise, fans can expect a rollercoaster of fear and suspense in this prequel series.
As we await the premiere of “Welcome to Derry” on HBO Max, the anticipation continues to build for a deep dive into the origins of one of horror’s most iconic villains. Stay tuned for more updates and be prepared to confront your deepest fears as Pennywise awakens once again.