The horror prequel It: Welcome to Derry arrives on HBO Max tonight. The series premieres at 9 PM ET on October 26, 2025. Bill Skarsgård returns as Pennywise the killer clown. Eight weekly episodes will follow through December 14.
Powerball winner scoops $1.817 billion on Christmas Eve, what happens next will change their life forever
Zendaya shuts down pregnancy rumors after viral London outing with Tom Holland goes too far—here’s what she actually said
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Premiere happens tonight at 9 PM ET on HBO Max
- The series features 8 total episodes releasing weekly on Sundays
- Set in 1962 Derry, Maine, decades before the films
- Jovan Adepo and Taylour Paige play Mike Hanlon’s grandparents
- Final episode streams on December 14, 2025
The Stephen King Prequel Expands the IT Universe
It: Welcome to Derry serves as an official prequel to Andy Muschietti’s hit films. Director Muschietti also directed multiple episodes of this new series. The show expands the world first established in 2017’s It and 2019’s It Chapter Two. Showrunner Jason Fuchs developed the project for television alongside the Muschietti team.
Arkansas lottery wins $1.817 billion Powerball jackpot on Christmas Eve, here’s what happens to the money
Powerball winner scoops $1.817 billion jackpot on Christmas Eve, but nobody knows who they are yet
The story follows the Hanlon family moving to the isolated town of Derry in 1962. Leroy and Charlotte Hanlon, played by Adepo and Paige, relocate after military service. They bring their son to this “normal” town with a dark secret. The premiere teases disappearances of children and creepy creatures lurking within Derry’s past.
“This is a show that reflects King’s original vision,” explained the showrunners. “We didn’t want to say goodbye to this world after the films.”
Powerhouse Cast Brings Derry to Life
Bill Skarsgård remains the only actor reprising his original role. The Swedish actor plays the supernatural entity in different forms throughout the series. Jovan Adepo anchors the ensemble as Leroy Hanlon, Mike’s grandfather. Taylour Paige portrays Charlotte Hanlon opposite him.
The supporting cast includes seasoned performers bringing depth to Derry’s residents. Chris Chalk plays a key role in the ensemble. James Remar and Madeleine Stowe add credibility with their dramatic experience. Stephen Rider and Rudy Mancuso complete the core cast. The production values match the cinematic quality of the films.
| Cast Member | Character Role |
| Bill Skarsgård | Pennywise/Supernatural Entity |
| Jovan Adepo | Leroy Hanlon (Grandfather) |
| Taylour Paige | Charlotte Hanlon (Grandmother) |
| Chris Chalk | Supporting Lead |
Release Schedule Gets You Ready for Horror
Episodes drop every Sunday night exclusively on HBO Max. The schedule offers viewers consistent weekly viewing through the end of the year. Each episode arrives at 9 PM ET and 6 PM PT every Sunday. This release strategy builds momentum and keeps fans engaged.
- October 26: Episode 1 premieres
- November 2: Episode 2 releases
- November 16: Episode 4 continues the story
- December 7: Episode 7 builds to finale
- December 14: Season finale concludes
This staggered release keeps viewers speculating between episodes. Horror fans can theorize and discuss each installment online. The format encourages social media engagement and community discussion throughout the fall.
Will This Prequel Capture the Movie Magic?
Stephen King personally approved the entire project before filming began. The author gave his blessing after reviewing early scripts and episodes. King’s involvement signals creative authenticity to longtime fans and devoted followers.
The series tackles a 1960s setting unexplored in the movies. This temporal shift offers fresh storytelling opportunities beyond existing storylines. Supernatural horror meets period-piece drama in ways the films couldn’t achieve. The prequel angle appeals to fans wanting deeper mythological exploration.
Will you dive into Derry tonight? Watch the official trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKa6u7LT0qE
Sources
- Deadline Hollywood – Official release schedule and episode details
- HBO Max – Series premiere information and streaming access
- New York Times – Stephen King prequel coverage and creative team interviews
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.