The upcoming TV series, It: Welcome to Derry, will bring back Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise, but viewers won’t see the terrifying clown immediately. Set in 1962 Derry, Maine, the show explores the dark events that unfold when the evil entity It awakens again, and Stephen King It forms are at the center of this chilling narrative.
The Many Faces of It Beyond Pennywise
During a recent interview, executive producers Andy and Barbara Muschietti discussed the challenges of reintroducing Pennywise in the new series. Barbara explained that limiting Pennywise’s presence keeps the character frightening, stating that if he appears too often, “it loses its power”—a careful pacing that enhances the horror. Andy Muschietti described this as a deliberate “slow burn,” where the “buildup and anticipation is intentional,” resulting in Pennywise’s appearance being purposely delayed.
While some fans worry about Pennywise not being the immediate focus, it’s important to remember that Pennywise is just one of the many forms of It. The entity is a malevolent shapeshifter that preys on individuals by taking on their deepest fears, so Pennywise’s clown persona is just one manifestation. This means that even if Pennywise is not prominent at first, the creature will still be present in other terrifying shapes throughout the series.
Why Focusing Less on Pennywise Could Benefit the Series
The choice to postpone Pennywise’s full reveal could actually strengthen Welcome to Derry. Previous adaptations of Stephen King’s novel, including the 1990 miniseries and the Muschietti films, heavily centered on Pennywise as the primary antagonist, even though the creature has many other forms. Because clowns are a common phobia, Pennywise became the symbol most associated with the story and remains one of the most iconic horror villains.
However, Pennywise’s fame also presents a risk of repetition. Relying primarily on this form might limit the show’s originality. By highlighting other shapes of It, the series can broaden its storytelling scope, deepening the mythology of Derry, the entity itself, and the people affected by its evil.
This approach allows for richer character development and a more layered depiction of the horror permeating the town, moving beyond Pennywise’s well-known image.
Cast and Characters in It: Welcome to Derry
Bill Skarsgård reprises his role as Pennywise, the chilling clown menace. The cast also includes Taylour Paige, who plays Charlotte Hanlon, contributing to the unfolding drama in 1960s Derry. The series promises a fresh perspective by exploring new characters and the complex history surrounding It’s presence in the town.
The upcoming series aims to expand the universe of Stephen King It forms by intertwining the chilling past of Derry with the multifaceted nature of the creature, creating a compelling prequel that adds depth to the familiar horror story.
