Just weeks before the new horror series “It: Welcome to Derry” is set to premiere, the master of horror himself, Stephen King, has given it a chilling endorsement. The author of the original novel shared his early reaction, building major excitement for the show’s release on October 26, 2025.
What Stephen King Said
On his social media account, Stephen King did not hold back his praise for the upcoming prequel. He shared a simple but powerful review, stating:
“Welcome to Derry is amazing. First episode is terrifying.”
This positive feedback is a significant milestone for the creators. King has not always praised adaptations of his work, famously criticizing some high-profile film and TV versions. His approval suggests the new series successfully captures the frightening essence of his beloved story.
The Story Behind “Welcome to Derry”
It: Welcome to Derry is an upcoming TV series that serves as a prequel to the two popular “It” films from 2017 and 2019. The story is set in 1962, decades before the events of the movies. It follows a new family that moves to the haunted town of Derry, Maine, coinciding with the disappearance of a young boy. Their arrival seems to trigger a new wave of very bad things.
The series will explore the darker history of Derry and the origins of the evil entity known as Pennywise the Clown. The show’s director, Andy Muschietti, has revealed that the series is planned for three seasons, with each season exploring a different catastrophic event in Derry’s past. The first season is set in 1962, with future seasons planned to go further back to 1935 and 1908.
Who is Returning for the Prequel?
A major draw for fans is the return of Bill Skarsgård, who will once again put on the makeup to play the terrifying Pennywise. Skarsgård is also serving as an executive producer on the series. He is joined by a cast that includes Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, Taylour Paige, and James Remar.
The creative team from the films is also heavily involved. Andy Muschietti, who directed the two “It” movies, is an executive producer and directed the first four episodes of the series. The music will be composed by Benjamin Wallfisch, who also created the scores for the films, ensuring a consistent and creepy atmosphere.
How to Watch “It: Welcome to Derry”
The series is scheduled to premiere on October 26, 2025, on HBO and will also be available to stream on HBO Max. The first season will consist of eight episodes, which will be released weekly after the premiere. This strategic release date, right before Halloween, is perfect for horror fans seeking a seasonal scare.
Also Read: IT: Welcome to Derry Trailer Brings Pennywise Back to Haunt Kids in Sinister and Creepy Town; WATCH
