HBO’s horror universe is expanding once again, and fans cannot stop talking about the Welcome to Derry cast. The upcoming series is based on Stephen King’s terrifying world from It, exploring how evil first emerged in Derry, Maine. The show will reveal new secrets, introduce fresh faces, and bring audiences closer to the nightmare that started it all.
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A Dark Return to Derry
“Welcome to Derry” is a prequel to It: Chapter One and It: Chapter Two. It takes place decades before the Losers’ Club faced Pennywise. The series will explore how the town became cursed and how fear continues to feed the evil that haunts it.
The creators, Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti, return as executive producers. They previously directed both It films, which became global horror hits. With HBO behind the project, expectations are incredibly high.
Meet the Welcome to Derry Cast
The Welcome to Derry cast features an impressive mix of established stars and talented newcomers. Each actor brings a unique energy to King’s chilling universe.
Confirmed cast members include:
- Taylour Paige (Zola, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom)
- Jovan Adepo (Watchmen, Fences)
- Chris Chalk (Gotham, Perry Mason)
- James Remar (Dexter, Oppenheimer)
- Madeleine Stowe (Revenge, 12 Monkeys)
- Stephen Rider (Daredevil, The Resident)
Their exact roles remain secret. However, reports suggest they will portray Derry residents connected to the origins of Pennywise.
Rumors also continue about Bill Skarsgård returning as Pennywise. Still, HBO has not confirmed his involvement yet.
Filming and Production Progress
Filming began earlier this year in Toronto, Canada. That location was also used for both It films. Production briefly paused during the 2023 Hollywood strikes. However, filming resumed quickly once agreements were reached in 2024.
Now, in October 2025, post-production is nearly complete. The first season will have eight episodes, each about one hour long.
Andy Muschietti confirmed that the show will “explore Derry’s early horrors” with fresh stories. The tone will be dark, cinematic, and deeply emotional.
A Look at the Storyline
While plot details are secret, insiders hint that “Welcome to Derry” is set in the 1960s. The series may reveal how Pennywise first arrived in town.
Fans will also see how Derry’s citizens became trapped in the cycle of fear. The story will explore themes of trauma, guilt, and community silence.
Importantly, the Welcome to Derry cast will portray how ordinary people respond when evil hides in plain sight.
The Creative Team Behind the Scenes
The creative force includes director Andy Muschietti, producer Barbara Muschietti, and writer Jason Fuchs. Together, they are known for blending emotion with horror.
Moreover, composer Benjamin Wallfisch, who created the haunting score for It, returns for this series. His music is expected to amplify the show’s unsettling atmosphere.
Cinematographer Checco Varese also joins the team. His recent work on Dopesick and It: Chapter Two shows his ability to create visually rich, tense worlds.
Stephen King’s Support
Stephen King has shared his excitement for the project. Recently, he praised the creative team for expanding his original story. “Andy and Barbara know Derry better than anyone,” King said in a recent interview. His support adds credibility and builds anticipation among fans.
Why Fans Are Excited
The It movies earned over $1.1 billion worldwide. Therefore, fans have high hopes for this series. Online forums are filled with theories, fan art, and casting discussions.
Many viewers believe that Taylour Paige’s character could be linked to the town’s earliest victims. Others think Jovan Adepo may play a reporter or investigator uncovering the truth about Derry’s dark history.
While HBO has kept quiet about the story, excitement continues to rise. The combination of strong casting, gripping visuals, and familiar horror elements makes this show one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.
Exploring Derry’s History
“Welcome to Derry” will go beyond jump scares. Instead, it will focus on the town’s strange past. Viewers will learn why the residents ignored the evil that consumed them.
The series will explore how fear shapes people’s decisions. It will also show how Derry’s secrets have passed down through generations. As the story unfolds, audiences will see that the real horror may not be Pennywise — it may be the people who allow him to exist.
Expected Release Window
Although HBO has not shared an official date, industry insiders expect a spring 2026 release. Episodes will stream weekly on Max (formerly HBO Max). This schedule will keep fans talking and guessing between episodes.
A full trailer is expected within the next few months. Marketing campaigns are already in early stages, focusing on mystery, nostalgia, and psychological tension.
A Look at Pennywise’s Legacy
Pennywise remains one of horror’s most recognizable villains. From the red balloons to the haunting smile, the clown symbolizes fear itself.
Even if Bill Skarsgård does not return, his legacy influences every part of the show. The producers have confirmed that “the presence of evil” will remain central to the story.
Therefore, the Welcome to Derry cast must carry the emotional and psychological weight of this terrifying world.
Impact on HBO’s Horror Lineup
HBO has been investing heavily in horror and thriller content. “Welcome to Derry” will join series like The Last of Us and True Detective: Night Country. This move shows HBO’s commitment to high-quality storytelling that mixes horror with heart.
Industry experts predict that the series could attract both long-time Stephen King fans and new viewers seeking suspenseful drama.
National News: Trump Comments on Microsoft
In other U.S. headlines, Donald Trump made news by saying Microsoft should fire Lisa Monaco, the company’s Global Affairs President. He shared his comments at a Florida event, criticizing her management style.
So far, Microsoft has not issued an official response. The statement sparked online debate but remains unrelated to entertainment updates like HBO’s upcoming releases.
Final Thoughts
The Welcome to Derry cast brings a new chapter to Stephen King’s haunting universe. With its strong ensemble, experienced creative team, and HBO’s backing, the series is set to deliver both fear and emotion.
Fans are eager to revisit Derry — the small town where nightmares never end. The story promises to reveal what lurks beneath the surface of a place everyone thought they knew.
Are you excited for HBO’s next horror masterpiece? Share your thoughts and predictions about the cast and story in the comments below.