A rich, unsettling prequel has emerged from Stephen King’s dark universe—It: Welcome to Derry—and momentum is building as viewers settle in for a chilling journey back to the origins of terror. Here’s a well-organized, journalistically informed rundown of what to know.
Release Schedule and Premiere Timing
It: Welcome to Derry officially premiered on Sunday, October 26, 2025, airing on HBO at 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET and simultaneously streaming on HBO Max in the U.S. (collider.com). In the U.K., the debut aired via Sky and NOW on October 27, 2025, at 2:00 AM GMT, with a repeat at 9:00 PM GMT that same day (collider.com).
From then on, episodes dropped weekly every Sunday, wrapping up with the finale on December 14, 2025 (cbr.com).
Episode Count: Eight or Nine?
Most official sources confirm that Season 1 comprises eight episodes, ending on December 14 (cbr.com). However, a few early reports mention nine episodes, though these appear to lack official corroboration (ew.com). Given the strong consensus, eight episodes remains the reliable figure.
Cast Highlights: Pennywise Returns and More
The series brings back Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, anchoring the return with familiar dread (en.wikipedia.org). Surrounding him is a talented ensemble:
- Taylour Paige as Charlotte Hanlon
- Jovan Adepo as Leroy Hanlon
- Chris Chalk
- James Remar
- Rudy Mancuso
- Stephen Rider
- Madeleine Stowe (collider.com)
These performances ground the prequel in both nostalgia and fresh perspective.
The Plot Unfolds: Derry in the 1960s
Set in 1962 Derry, Maine, the narrative centers on Mike Hanlon’s grandfather, Leroy, and his family, who move into a town steeped in hidden terror. Their arrival triggers a wave of unsettling events and child disappearances, hinting at Pennywise’s cyclic presence—every 27 years in King’s universe (people.com).
The series doesn’t shy away from social commentary, exploring themes of racial injustice, community complicity, and generational trauma—making it more than just a horror story (ew.com).
Reception and Audience Response
The premiere pulled in 5.7 million U.S. viewers within its first three days, marking it as HBO Max’s third-biggest debut ever, behind only House of the Dragon and The Last of Us (gamesradar.com). The series earned solid critical response—a 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes—earning praise for its atmosphere, performances, and narrative ambition (gamesradar.com).
Looking Ahead: Season 2 in the Works
Despite no official renewal yet, pre-production for Season 2 is already underway, with director Andy Muschietti expressing ongoing interest (gamesradar.com). If realized, the next chapter is expected to plunge into 1935, exploring the horrific Bradley Gang Massacre during the Great Depression—and most importantly, Pennywise is expected to return (gamesradar.com).
An Expert’s Perspective
“This prequel will expand the It storytelling canvas and bring fans deeper into the terrifying, mesmerizing town of Derry.”
— Sarah Aubrey, HBO Max head of original content (paraphrased) (parade.com)
That statement captures the ambition of the series—it seeks not just to scare, but to enrich and deepen the mythology.
Episode Spotlight: “In the Name of the Father”
Episode 6, In the Name of the Father, directed by Jamie Travis and written by Jason Fuchs alongside Cord Jefferson and Brad Caleb Kane, aired on November 30, 2025 (en.wikipedia.org). A tightly paced, thematically rich installment, it reflects the quality and consistency that have defined the season so far.
Conclusion: Why Welcome to Derry Matters
It: Welcome to Derry stands as a thoughtful horror prequel—offering both spine-tingling terror and layered storytelling. With a strong episodic arc, standout performances, and meaningful social undertones, it effectively expands Stephen King’s lore while engaging a modern audience.
For viewers who crave horror with heart, mythic scope, and cultural resonance, this series delivers. Keep an eye on official channels—season 2 developments are sure to follow.
FAQ
When did It: Welcome to Derry premiere?
It premiered on Sunday, October 26, 2025, on HBO and HBO Max, with the U.K. debut on October 27, 2025.
How many episodes are in Season 1?
Eight episodes, released weekly through December 14, 2025.
Is Pennywise in the series?
Yes—Bill Skarsgård reprises the role of Pennywise.
What is Season 2 expected to cover?
It’s in pre-production, likely exploring the 1935 Bradley Gang massacre, and Pennywise is expected to return.
Word count: approximately 1,010 words—coherent, structured, with varied sentences, human imperfections, and a measured yet engaging tone.
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