Is It Welcome to Derry a Movie?
No, It Welcome to Derry is not a movie; it is an upcoming American supernatural horror television series for HBO. It serves as a prequel to the 2017 film It Chapter One and the 2019 film It Chapter Two, exploring the origins of Pennywise and the Losers’ Club in 1960s Derry, Maine. Below is a verified overview of the series, including status, key cast, and how it fits into the larger It franchise.
What Is Welcome to Derry?
Welcome to Derry is a horror series that lays the foundation for the events in the two feature films. Developed by Gary Dauberman and Roy Lee, the series is produced by New Line Television, Vertigo Entertainment, and Warner Bros. Television. It will expand the world, mythology, and lore of Stephen King’s It by examining how the town became infected with evil and how Pennywise emerged. As of mid-2025, the series is in production and has announced a series of castings while preparing for a debut on HBO.
Key Details at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Television series (not a movie) | Official announcements |
| Network | HBO | Network and production company statements |
| Setting | 1960s Derry, Maine | Published synopsis |
| Relation to Films | Prequel to It Chapter One (2017) and It Chapter Two (2019) | Production notes |
| Status | In production; no premiere date confirmed | Trade reports, studio updates |
| Showrunner | Gary Dauberman (co-developer) | Official credits |
Relationship to the It Film Series
The two cinematic releases—It Chapter One (2017) and It Chapter Two (2019)—cover the adult lives of the Losers’ Club and their final confrontation with Pennywise. Welcome to Derry exists in the same continuity but moves backward in time to the 1960s, illustrating the formation of the group and the rise of the clown. Producers have described it as a companion piece and origin story rather than a direct adaptation of a specific novel segment.
Cast and Creative Leadership
HBO has陆续 announced casting for both established and emerging actors. While the full ensemble has not been finalized, the production includes prominent names in horror and character acting. Gary Dauberman is credited as co-developer and showrunner alongside Roy Lee; Andy McDermott serves as executive producer. These leaders bring experience in character-driven horror and faithful adaptations of King’s work.
Notable Cast Announcements
- Pennywise the Dancing Clown: The visual design and performance approach reflect the classic interpretations while aiming for fresh horror craftsmanship.
- Young Bill Denbrough: A rising character actor known for intense dramatic work in small-town settings.
- Young Georgie Denbrough: Recognized for nuanced child performance in emotionally charged scenes.
- Other core Losers’ Club members: In various stages of casting, with producers emphasizing authentic chemistry.
Production Timeline and Milestones
Welcome to Derry moved from development to active production in 2024, with principal photography reported underway. Industry trade outlets note that the series is filming in and around Vancouver to approximate the Maine setting. No official premiere window has been released, but HBO aims to position the show as a marquee horror event for its platform in the near future.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Series order announced by HBO | Formal commitment to a prequel series |
| 2023 | Writers’ room and pre-production | Script development and design work |
| 2024 | Principal photography begins | Moves project from planning to filmed content |
| 2025 | Ongoing production and casting announcements | Continued progress toward completion |
How to Follow Updates
Because the series is still in production, details such as episode count, exact release timing, and full cast may change. For the most reliable information, consult official HBO communications from Warner Bros. Discovery and trusted entertainment news outlets with a track record of accurate reporting on the It franchise.
Common Questions and Clarifications
Because multiple projects exist within the It universe, confusion sometimes arises. This explainer focuses strictly on Welcome to Derry as a television series. It is distinct from any future films or additional spin-offs that may be in early development.
Quick Comparison
| Project | Format | Timeline | Relationship to It |
|---|---|---|---|
| It Chapter One | Feature film | 2017 | Main story set in the 1980s |
| It Chapter Two | Feature film | 2019 | Conclusion with adult cast |
| Welcome to Derry | Television series | In production | Prequel set in the 1960s |
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