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The series expands on the world of the classic Stephen King story.

Stephen King’s IT is a classic of horror storytelling, both in terms of the original novel and the two movie duologies it spawned. The shark-toothed image of Pennywise the clown is one of the most iconic in entertainment today, which is why Warner Bros. is looking to get a little more out of him.

This week, Warner Bros. Television ordered the creation of an IT prequel series to be streamed on HBO Max with the working title “Welcome to Derry.” The production will be headed up by filmmakers Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs, all of whom had a hand in the creation of the modern IT films.

“As teenagers, we took turns reading chapters of Stephen King’s IT until the thick paperback fell to pieces,” said Andy and Barbara Muschietti in a joint statement. “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.”

“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 added.

Check it out: https://t.co/faJATDL1ja

— Stephen King (@StephenKing) February 24, 2023

“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,” Stephen King said about the series announcement. “Red balloons all around!”