From a business perspective, a show like “Welcome to Derry” makes every bit of sense in the world. One, because the “It” movies made more than $1.1 billion at the box office, with the first entry ranking as the highest-grossing horror movie in history. Not to mention that King’s novel is absolutely massive, with the town of Derry having a long, terrible history with Pennywise. There is, undoubtedly, a story to tell here. Jason Fuchs had this to add:
“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.”
Fuchs is set to write the first episode of the show, working from a story he cooked up with the Muschiettis. Fuchs will also serve as showrunner alongside Brad Caleb Kane, with the duo also on board as executive producers alongside Andy and Barbara Muschietti. No word yet on casting, but one has to imagine that Pennywise will be a big part of the show. That means HBO Max undoubtedly would like to see Bill Skarsgard return to the role. Whether or not that will actually happen remains to be seen. King had this to say about it.
“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!”
“Welcome to Derry” does not yet have a release date.