Pennywise Returns: IT Welcome to Derry Gets Official HBO Premiere Date and It’s Creepy AF

HBO just confirmed the premiere date for IT: Welcome to Derry and yes, the clown is back to ruin your Halloween. This spine-chilling prequel to Stephen King's IT movies is set to drop on October 26, 2025, and horror fans everywhere are already sweating through their red balloons. The show dives deep into the twisted history of Derry, Maine because apparently the 80s version of trauma just wasn't enough.

What Is IT: Welcome to Derry All About?

Set in 1962, nearly three decades before the events of IT Chapter One, this new Max original series explores the horrifying origin of Pennywise and the cursed town he feeds on. This isn’t just another retread of kids on bikes and sewers full of screams. Nope. This show promises to dig into Derry's darkest secrets including the fire at the Black Spot and other "historical events" that King fans will recognize from the novel’s creepy interludes.

Expect creepy carnivals, missing children, haunted buildings, and more psychological horror than your last family dinner. Also expect social commentary because what’s scarier than supernatural evil? Systemic evil.

The Cast and Crew Will Make You Float Too

Bill Skarsgård is officially back as Pennywise because nobody does terrifying clown better. Joining him are Taylour Paige, Jovan Adepo, and Chris Chalk in new roles that promise fresh layers of trauma and survival. Welcome to Derry is produced by the Muschietti siblings who directed the IT films, so yes, the vibes are certified.

New Trailers and What They Tease

The first teaser dropped in May and gave us unsettling glimpses of 60s Derry, a freaky bus labeled Shawshank, and one very ominous red balloon. Another preview debuted at Comic-Con and made it crystal clear this show is not for the faint of heart or anyone who hates clowns with teeth sharper than logic.

Time to Rewatch IT and Sleep With the Lights On

With a release date locked for October 26, Welcome to Derry is shaping up to be the must-watch horror series of 2025. Whether you're a die-hard Stephen King fan or just here for the existential dread, this show promises to deliver blood, lore, and balloon-fueled terror in equal measure.

Ready to float again? You might want to keep the lights on this time. And maybe stay away from storm drains. Just saying.

Want more updates on Welcome to Derry and other horror releases? Stick around. We’ve got the goods, and no, we’re not afraid of clowns. Much.