HBO Releases IT: Welcome to Derry Prequel Teaser for 1960s Pennywise Series

HBO Max is set to release IT: Welcome to Derry, a prequel series to the popular IT films, this fall. The series, developed and directed by Andy Muschietti and his team, explores the dark origins of Pennywise the Clown and is set in 1962, 27 years before the events of the original movies. Bill Skarsgård reprises his role as Pennywise, and the show delves into the town of Derry's haunted past, inspired by Stephen King's novel and its interludes about the town's history. The series emphasizes themes of fear, loss, and unity, aiming to expand the mythology of King's universe with a rich cast including Taylour Paige, Jovan Adepo, and Chris Chalk. While fans are excited, some have expressed concerns that the prequel may feel too similar to the 2017 and 2019 films and worry it might not cover enough new material from the book. Nevertheless, the series promises to offer a deeper look into Pennywise’s earlier killing sprees and the community’s struggles with fear.