Sci-Fi Bulletin: Exploring the Universes of SF, Fantasy, Horror and Spy-fi!

HBO Max has confirmed a series order for IT prequel Welcome to Derry.

Set in the world of Stephen King’s “IT” universe, the series is based on Stephen King’s “IT” novel and expands the vision established by filmmaker Andy Muschietti in the feature films “IT” and “IT Chapter Two.” It was developed for television by filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti and Jason Fuchs.

Sarah Aubrey, Head of Original Content, HBO Max noted: “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.”

Andy and Barbara Muschietti added: “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.”

Jason 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.”

“I’m excited that the story of Derry, Maine’s most haunted city, is continuing,” Stephen King said, “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!”

Jason Fuchs will write the teleplay for the first episode, based on a story by Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Fuchs. Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane will serve as co-showrunners on the project.