It: Welcome to Derry Premieres to ~80% RT Score

It: Welcome to Derry is an HBO prequel to the 2017 and 2019 It films, based on Stephen King’s novel, and is set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max on October 26, 2025 (with streaming on JioHotstar on Oct. 27). Set in the early 1960s, the eight-episode series explores the origins of Pennywise and expands the creature’s lore. Bill Skarsgård returns as Pennywise and also serves as an executive producer; the show is developed by Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs. Early critical response has been strongly positive, with Rotten Tomatoes around 80–82% and praise for its atmosphere, increased scares, body horror and thematic depth, including meditations on race and Americana. Some critics note the large ensemble can fragment the narrative, but overall reception remains favorable ahead of the series’ weekly rollout.