Pennywise Returns: ‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ Premieres October 26

New York, NY — HBO Max is set to launch the chilling new series ‘IT: Welcome to Derry‘ on October 26. Directed by Andy Muschietti and produced by him and his sister Barbara, the series serves as a prequel to their successful films based on Stephen King‘s horror novel, IT.

‘With the upcoming series, we wanted to raise the bar higher in terms of shock value,’ Andy Muschietti explained. ‘We needed a strong opening that puts the audience on the edge of their seats.’

The Muschiettis, who also directed the hit IT films that grossed over a billion dollars, began developing the series alongside writer Jason Fuchs. The story dives into the history of the fictional town of Derry, Maine, where a new family arrives amid an atmosphere of fear and mystery.

According to Barbara Muschietti, their focus has always been on telling compelling stories across various formats and budgets. ‘We see movies of every size and we want to continue telling stories that can be done on different sized budgets,’ she said.

The series will explore themes of childhood fears during the 1960s, including the paranoia of the Cold War era. ‘We were excited to explore what the ’60s were in America and what kids were fearful of,’ Andy noted.

The show’s first season consists of nine episodes, and the Muschiettis have plans for additional seasons that will delve deeper into the mythology of Derry and its infamous resident, Pennywise. ‘There will be an intentional bigger arc that expands our storytelling over Seasons 1, 2, and 3,’ Andy mentioned.

Fans can expect a graphic and shocking conclusion in the first episode that sets the tone for the series. ‘It’s about an event that is shocking enough that nothing is taken for granted in this world,’ Andy said. ‘You’re immediately putting people on the edge of the seat.’

Stephen King has endorsed the series, expressing his excitement about the Muschiettis overseeing the project. ‘I’m glad Andy Muschietti is going to be overseeing the frightening festivities,’ he tweeted.

‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ is bracing for a standout premiere that aims to captivate horror enthusiasts. Stay tuned as the countdown to Pennywise’s return continues.