Set in 1962, the upcoming series 'Welcome to Derry' acts as a prequel to the IT movies, occurring 26 years before the events of IT Chapter 1, aligning with the 27-year cycle of Pennywise, the demon clown. The series is developed by Andy Muschietti, the director of the modern IT films, promising a continuation of the same gripping terror that captivated audiences.
Muschietti has retained key creative personnel, including composer Benjamin Wallfisch, ensuring a consistent thematic tone across the movies and the new HBO Max series. Notably, Stephen King himself approved the script for 'Welcome to Derry,' reflecting a level of confidence in Muschietti's vision.
Though set in the past, Bill Skarsgård will reprise his role as Pennywise, bridging the transition between the films and the series. 'Welcome to Derry' aims to delve into the history and mysteries of Pennywise's presence in Derry long before the Losers Club's encounter.
While only the first season of the series has been confirmed, there's potential for further exploration into Derry's dark past if it proves successful. Subsequent seasons may explore events in 1935 and even further back to 1908, ensuring the narrative remains tightly tied to the established mythos and intriguing timeline of manifestations every 27 years.
'Welcome to Derry' represents an ambitious expansion of Stephen King's literary universe, aiming to offer a deeper exploration of the interludes of King's novel and enrich the terrifying lore of Derry with cinematic expertise.