HBO’s prequel series, It:Welcome to Derry has been generating buzz, not only returnin to the sinister tiled town, but also the absence of the series’ primary antagonist, Pennywise the dancing clown, played by Bills Skarsgard (Hemlock Grove, Nosferatu). According to Screenrant, the story takes place before the events within the 2017 film, and further delving into new leads which includes Lilly, played by Clara Stack (Hawkeye, The Naughty Nine), Marge, played by Matilda Lawler (The Santa Clauses, The Glided Age), and Ronnie, played by Amanda Christine (Bunk’d, Black Box).

There has been only two episodes released so far, but that does not mean that the horror aspecte has been reduced. Stated by Screenrant, so far we can a glimpse into the cast being targeted and subjected to relive their own fears and traumas, which will slowly lead up to the Pennywise’s return.

Reported by Screenrant, Stephen King (The Shining, The Stand) goes on to speak with New York Post, about Pennywise’s future appearance,” When Pennywise finally appears, he’s still scary as hell. I like ‘Welcome to Derry’ a lot. There are plenty of horrors and lots of surreal visuals. There’s a supermarket scare that sticks in my mind, complete with pickle jars.” This statement has hyped up viewers to witness Bill Skarsgård reprising his role and expecting a spectacular performance.

Furthermore, Screenrant states that the military is also searching for a secret weapon hidden somewhere in Derry. General Francis Shaw, played by James Remar (Ratatouille, Black Lightning), explains the mission as he speaks to a young Leroy Hanlon, portrayed by Jovan Adepo (Overlord, Babylon), whom he recruits for the operation because of his fearlessness.

Only time will reveal the further horrors the cast will experience, but one thing is certain: King’s statement suggests that Pennywise will make a significant impact later in the series. Current episodes of It: Welcome to Derry are available to stream on HBO Max, with new ones released every Sunday.