Introduction
IT: Welcome to Derry, a chilling prequel to the 2017 and 2019 It films, has finally arrived. The series premiered on HBO and HBO Max on October 26, 2025, and unfolds over eight episodes through mid-December. It revisits the eerie town of Derry in 1962, exploring the origins of Pennywise and the dark history that haunts the community. This article delivers everything confirmed so far—cast, release schedule, and plot—so you can stay informed without the fluff.
Premiere Date and Episode Schedule
The series debuted on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and streamed simultaneously on HBO Max . Episodes aired weekly, culminating in the finale on December 14, 2025 . The rollout strategically spanned Halloween into the holiday season, enhancing the show’s suspenseful atmosphere .
Cast and Characters
The ensemble blends familiar faces with new talent. Bill Skarsgård reprises his iconic role as Pennywise and also serves as an executive producer . Taylour Paige stars as Charlotte Hanlon, and Jovan Adepo plays her husband, Leroy Hanlon . Other key cast members include Chris Chalk, James Remar, Stephen Rider, Madeleine Stowe, Rudy Mancuso, and Clara Stack .
Plot Overview
Set in 1962, the story follows the Hanlon family as they move to Derry, Maine, just as a local boy vanishes. Their arrival coincides with a surge of sinister events tied to Pennywise’s cyclical terror . The series draws from the “interludes” in Stephen King’s novel, spotlighting Derry’s troubled past, including the racially motivated burning of the Black Spot nightclub .
Development and Production
Development began in March 2022 with Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs at the helm . The series was greenlit in February 2023, with Muschietti directing multiple episodes and Fuchs co-writing and showrunning alongside Brad Caleb Kane . Filming took place in Canada, beginning in May 2023 and wrapping in August 2024 after delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike .
Reception and Viewership
The premiere drew 5.7 million U.S. viewers within its first three days, making it HBO Max’s third-biggest debut behind House of the Dragon and The Last of Us . Critics responded positively, with an 81% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes . Reviews praised the production values, direction, and performances, especially Skarsgård’s return as Pennywise .
Future of the Series
While HBO has not officially renewed the show for a second season, the creators have outlined a three-season arc covering Pennywise’s cycles in 1962, 1935, and 1908 . Andy Muschietti and Jason Fuchs have confirmed this broader vision, though no formal greenlight has been announced .
What’s Next for Viewers
With Season 1 concluded, attention now turns to whether HBO will officially commission Season 2. Fans can expect the story to delve deeper into Derry’s past, exploring earlier cycles of Pennywise’s terror. Until then, the series remains a standout addition to the It universe, offering both horror and historical context.
IT: Welcome to Derry delivers a haunting expansion of Stephen King’s mythology. With a strong cast, atmospheric storytelling, and a clear multi-season plan, it stands as a compelling prequel. Viewers will be watching closely for HBO’s next move—and for more of Pennywise’s dark legacy.
