HBO Max Orders IT Prequel Series

HBO Max has ordered Welcome to Derry (w.t.), a prequel to the hit IT films, from Warner Bros. Television.

The prequel is being developed for television by filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti (IT, IT Chapter Two) and Jason Fuchs (IT Chapter Two, Wonder Woman, Argylle). Andy Muschietti will also direct multiple episodes.

Fuchs will write the teleplay for the first episode, based on a story by the Muschiettis and himself. Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane will serve as co-showrunners. The Muschiettis (through their Double Dream production company), Fuchs and Kane are all executive producers.

Sarah Aubrey, head of original content at HBO Max, said: “We are thrilled to continue this iconic franchise with the brilliant Andy and Barbara Muschietti, Jason Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane. This prequel will expand the IT storytelling canvas and bring fans deeper into the terrifying, mesmerizing town of Derry.”

The Muschiettis commented: “As teenagers, we took turns reading chapters of Stephen King’s IT until the thick paperback fell to pieces. IT is an epic story that contains multitudes, far beyond what we could explore in our IT movies. We can’t wait to share the depths of Steve’s novel, in all its heart, humor, humanity and horror.”

Fuchs said: “To be able to return to the world of my all-time favorite horror novel and help build upon the singularly brilliant cinematic universe created by Andy and Barbara is more than the opportunity of a lifetime, it’s a dream come true—or, maybe more appropriately, a nightmare.”

Stephen King added: “I’m excited that the story of Derry, Maine’s most haunted city, is continuing, and I’m glad Andy Muschietti is going to be overseeing the frightening festivities, along with a brain trust including his talented sister, Barbara. Red balloons all around!”