IT: Welcome to Derry Reveals Its Deadly Secrets

In the chilling realm of Stephen King’s IT, children have never been safe. Max’s upcoming prequel series, IT: Welcome to Derry, promises no change to that grim tradition. Rich Delia, casting director for both IT and IT Chapter Two, recently discussed the series with anticipation. Speaking with The Direct, he confirmed that audiences should brace for some child fatalities in the new show. His past work with the beloved Losers Club made finding a new cast both challenging and exhilarating.

The New Losers Club

Casting these characters wasn’t just a task. It was an odyssey. Delia felt the weight of recreating such iconic roles, stating, “I think the original cast of Losers are such beautiful young actors who have all gone on to do amazing things.” Despite feeling overwhelmed initially, the robust material and deep characters inspired him. The dedication of Andy and Barbara Muschietti only fueled his commitment further. Delia’s focus was on unearthing the most compelling young talent audiences would love, even as some characters face grim fates.

Pennywise Returns

Confirmed deaths in the series align with Pennywise’s infamous reputation. The child-eating clown isn’t softening up this time around. Actor Bill Skarsgård, who plays the terrifying Pennywise, assured fans of the series’ intensity, promising it will be "pretty hardcore." His portrayal of Pennywise remains as haunting as ever.

Reflecting on Skarsgård’s audition for the 2017 IT film, Delia describes it as unforgettable. Skarsgård emerged not in a clown suit but still managed to terrify the room. His chilling performance marked him as the obvious choice. “I had chills, and the hair up on my arm… I was actually scared in the room.” Skarsgård’s Pennywise is set to maintain this terrifying presence in the prequel.

Anticipation Builds

While a release date remains elusive, Max has confirmed that IT: Welcome to Derry is slated for a 2025 premiere. Alongside Skarsgård, the series stars Madeleine Stowe, Stephen Rider, and Jovan Adepo, among others. With executive producing credits under his belt, Skarsgård’s commitment to Pennywise promises a bone-chilling experience.

Fans eagerly await the series, reassured that it won’t shy away from the gruesome nature of its predecessor. As the narrative unfolds in Derry, viewers must brace for the inevitable heartache that comes with beloved characters meeting their end. Until then, fans can revisit IT and IT Chapter Two, both streaming on Max. The tale of Derry is far from over, and Pennywise lurks, ever hungry.