HBO Max has exciting news for horror fans as it orders the Max Original drama WELCOME TO DERRY (working title) into a series. The show is a prequel to the popular New Line global blockbuster "IT" films and is set in the world of Stephen King's "IT" universe. The drama series is developed by filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti, who directed the two "IT" movies, and Jason Fuchs, who has worked on "IT Chapter Two," "Wonder Woman," and "Argylle."
WELCOME TO DERRY expands on the vision established by Andy Muschietti in the feature films "IT" and "IT Chapter Two." The show will delve deeper into the terrifying and mesmerizing town of Derry, which is known to be one of Stephen King's most haunted cities. The drama series will explore the depths of King's novel, providing fans with a more profound understanding of the story's heart, humor, humanity, and horror.
Sarah Aubrey, Head of Original Content at HBO Max, expressed her excitement about the project, saying, "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."
As teenagers, Andy and Barbara Muschietti took turns reading chapters of Stephen King's "IT" until the thick paperback fell to pieces. The duo is excited to share the depths of King's novel, stating, "IT is an epic story that contains multitudes, far beyond what we could explore in our ‘IT' movies." Jason Fuchs, who will be writing the teleplay for the first episode, called the opportunity to help build upon the brilliant cinematic universe created by Andy and Barbara a dream come true.
Even Stephen King himself is excited about the project, saying, "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 is produced by HBO Max and Warner Bros. Television, with Jason Fuchs writing the teleplay for the first episode. Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane will serve as co-showrunners on the project. Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti will executive produce through their production company, Double Dream, which has an overall deal with WBTV. Andy Muschietti will also direct multiple episodes of the series, including the first episode.
WELCOME TO DERRY is a highly anticipated prequel to the hit "IT" films that promises to provide fans with a more profound understanding of the story's universe. With an impressive team of filmmakers behind it and the support of HBO Max and Warner Bros. Television, the series is sure to be a thrilling and terrifying ride for horror fans everywhere.
