IT Prequel: Derry – Shining Connection & Graphic Imagery | SDCC 2025
“IT: Welcome to Derry” Prequel Series Promises Deeper Connections to stephen King’s Universe, Including a Familiar Face from “The Shining”
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Stephen King fans, prepare to return to the terrifying town of Derry. The upcoming HBO Max prequel series, “IT: Welcome to derry,” is set to delve deeper into the origins of Pennywise the Dancing clown and the town’s dark history, promising a wealth of connections to the wider stephen King universe. Showrunner Andy Muschietti has teased that these links will range from subtle nods to more overt revelations, ensuring a rich tapestry for devoted fans.
Expanding the Stephen king Lore
While the “IT” films focused on the Losers’ Club and thier harrowing encounters with Pennywise in the late 20th century, “Welcome to Derry” will transport viewers back to the 1960s, exploring the events that shaped the town and the malevolent entity that haunts it. Muschietti has confirmed that the series will not only explore new facets of Pennywise’s story but also weave in characters and elements from other beloved Stephen King works.
Dick Hallorann Joins the Fray
One of the most significant crossovers confirmed is the inclusion of Dick Hallorann, a pivotal character from “The Shining.” hallorann, famously portrayed by Scatman Crothers in Stanley Kubrick’s film adaptation and by Carl Lumbly in the “Doctor Sleep” film, will be a more considerable presence in “Welcome to Derry.” In the original “IT” novel, Hallorann is mentioned as a soldier who played a role in founding the black Spot, a segregated establishment for Black soldiers. In the prequel series, Chris Chalk will step into the role of Hallorann, offering a deeper exploration of his connection to Derry’s troubled past.
A Glimpse into the Terror
An early trailer for “Welcome to Derry has offered a chilling preview of what’s to come. The footage showcases a family arriving in Derry, only to begin uncovering the town’s sinister secrets and the disappearances of local children. Interspersed with these unsettling glimpses are familiar “IT” landmarks, such as the ominous Neibolt House and Pennywise’s distinctive wagon.
The trailer also delivers a direct connection to another iconic Stephen King story with the appearance of a Shawshank Prison bus, hinting at the interconnectedness of King’s fictional universe.And, as expected, the trailer culminates with a final, terrifying shot of Pennywise himself, once again brought to life by Bill Skarsgård, confirming his return to the role that has captivated and terrified audiences.
“IT: Welcome to Derry” is slated to premiere in October on HBO Max, promising a terrifying and lore-rich journey back to the heart of Stephen king’s most enduring nightmares.
