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Pennywise Returns: HBO Renews “It: Welcome to Derry” for a Deep Dive into the Past

bekir August 17, 2026 3 min read 1 views

Horror fans, rejoice! It’s been an incredible year for scares, with unexpected hits and beloved IPs finding new life. Now, one of Stephen King’s most iconic creations is getting another chapter. HBO has officially greenlit a second season of “It: Welcome to Derry,” promising even more terrifying tales from the cursed town of Maine.

Delving Deeper into Derry’s Dark History

“It: Welcome to Derry” serves as a prequel to Andy Muschietti’s acclaimed films, “It” and “It: Chapter Two.” The series expands on the rich history of Stephen King’s infamous town. Season 1 transported viewers back to 1962, introducing a new group of children investigating the unsettling disappearances plaguing Derry. Simultaneously, Leroy Hanlon (Jovan Adepo), Charlotte Hanlon (Taylour Paige), and Dick Hallorann (Chris Chalk) become entangled in a military operation attempting to understand – and potentially weaponize – the supernatural force lurking beneath the town. Of course, this force eventually reveals one of its most recognizable faces: Pennywise, once again portrayed by Bill Skarsgård.

[[MEDIA_0: Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise in “It: Welcome to Derry”. Caption: Pennywise is back to terrorize a new generation.]]

The series leverages its extended TV format to explore both the younger characters and the town of Derry itself, showcasing how Pennywise’s influence permeates the entire community, extending far beyond individual victims.

What to Expect in Season 2: The Great Depression Era

Season 2 will journey even further back in time, from 1962 to 1935, during the depths of the Great Depression. According to HBO, the new season will center around the infamous massacre of the Bradley Gang, a group of bank robbers who arrive in Derry seeking ammunition but instead encounter something far more sinister.

[[MEDIA_1: A vintage car connected to the Bradley Gang. Caption: Clues about the Bradley Gang were subtly hinted at in Season 1.]]

This incident is directly lifted from Stephen King’s novel, where the Bradley Gang massacre is one of several historical tragedies linked to Pennywise’s recurring appearances in Derry. The gang was already teased during “Welcome to Derry” season 1 through subtle hints in the opening credits and a vintage car that Hallorann uncovers.

Casting and Release Date: What We Know So Far

HBO has yet to announce casting details for the new season, including whether Bill Skarsgård will officially return as Pennywise. Given the show’s premise, however, It itself will undoubtedly play a crucial role. The release date for “It: Welcome to Derry” season 2 remains unannounced.

[[MEDIA_2: A promotional image for “It: Welcome to Derry”. Caption: Get ready for another terrifying journey into the heart of darkness.]]

Source: Polygon

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