HBO’s It: Welcome to Derry, a prequel series to the popular IT films, delves into the eerie beginnings of Pennywise and the chilling mysteries of Derry in the 1960s. This series showcases a talented cast who bring to life the compelling characters that fuel the story’s suspense and terror.
The series expands on Stephen King’s universe, offering new insights into events that set the stage for the original IT movies. Praised for its effective jump scares and deep character development, It: Welcome to Derry has received positive reviews, including a 77% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, drawing viewers who are eager to explore the town’s dark secrets and the roles its inhabitants play in them.
Leading Lady Taylour Paige as Charlotte Hanlon
Taylour Paige, born October 5, 1990, in Santa Monica, California, plays Charlotte, a schoolteacher who moves to Derry with her husband and becomes entwined in the town’s mysterious and ominous happenings. Paige rose to prominence through VH1’s Hit The Floor and later appeared in acclaimed films such as Zola and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Her recent projects include The Toxic Avenger and Brothers, reflecting her growing reputation in Hollywood.
Charlotte Hanlon’s character is pivotal in uncovering the enigmas surrounding Derry’s peaceful facade, juxtaposing her everyday life with the supernatural threats lurking beneath. Paige’s portrayal captures the strength and vulnerability of someone caught between normalcy and terrifying unknowns.
Jovan Adepo Brings Leroy Hanlon to Life
Jovan Adepo, born September 6, 1988, in Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire, takes on the role of Leroy Hanlon, Charlotte’s husband and an Air Force Major. Adepo’s journey in acting began after earning his B.A. in political science and philosophy from Bowie State University in Maryland. He gained recognition in films such as Fences and Babylon and appeared in notable TV shows like The Leftovers and Jack Ryan.
Within the series, Leroy is one of the first to notice the bizarre and threatening events overtaking Derry. His military background adds a layer of determination as he delves increasingly deep into the town’s sinister occurrences, setting him on a dangerous path that intertwines with the central mysteries of the story.
Young Star Clara Stack as Lilly
Clara Stack, born October 19, 2010, portrays Lilly, a key younger character who encounters the horrors of Derry firsthand. This role marks her most significant screen appearance so far, following smaller parts in shows like Madam Secretary, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Hawkeye.
Lilly’s character is central to the early tension of It: Welcome to Derry, as she becomes a witness and victim to the town’s dark forces. Stack’s performance lends a natural innocence and courage to the young character’s quest to uncover the truth behind the terrifying events threatening her and her friends.
Chris Chalk as Community Leader Dick Hallorann
Chris Chalk, born December 7, 1977, in Asheville, North Carolina, embodies Dick Hallorann, a community figure who recognizes the growing peril stalking Derry’s residents. Chalk’s acting résumé includes roles in Homeland, The Newsroom, and Gotham. He is also known for performances in films such as 12 Years a Slave and TV series like Law & Order and Shining Girls.
As Hallorann, Chalk portrays a protector and observer striving to keep the town’s people safe from encroaching darkness. His character’s awareness of the sinister undercurrents in Derry underscores the series’ broader themes of vigilance and resilience against evil forces.
Bill Skarsgård Returns as Pennywise the Dancing Clown
Bill Skarsgård, born August 9, 1990, in Vällingby, Stockholm, reprises his chilling role as Pennywise in It: Welcome to Derry. Having first terrified audiences in the 2017 IT film directed by Andy Muschietti, Skarsgård’s portrayal of the malevolent clown has become iconic within the horror genre. His expanding filmography includes titles like John Wick: Chapter 4, Nosferatu, and Barbarian.
In the HBO series, Skarsgård’s Pennywise appears less frequently than in the movies, as the show emphasizes building suspense and maintaining an air of mystery. This approach intensifies the unsettling atmosphere, allowing the character’s terror to unfold gradually while captivating viewers with psychological depth.
Additional Key Cast in It: Welcome to Derry
Several other talented actors contribute to the strength of the ensemble in It: Welcome to Derry. Mikkal Karim Fidler plays Terry, a leading young figure known for roles in Six and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Jack Molloy Legault, recognized from Home Sweet Home Alone and Three Pines, portrays Phil during the series’ opening arc. Amanda Christine appears as Veronica, with previous credits including Black Box, Bunk’d, Colony, and Black-ish.
Miles Ekhardt portrays Matty and made his acting debut in the film Turtles All the Way Down. Together, these actors enrich the story’s perspective by depicting the youthful characters whose lives intersect with Derry’s dark legacy, enhancing the show’s emotional and narrative layers.
The Significance and Future of It: Welcome to Derry
It: Welcome to Derry deepens the mythology surrounding Pennywise and the cursed town, offering fans and new audiences a fresh perspective on Stephen King’s world. The series’ positive reception and strong performances indicate its potential to become a staple for horror enthusiasts. By focusing on character development alongside suspense, the show balances intense thrills with emotional stakes.
As the narrative progresses, viewers can expect further unraveling of Derry’s grim secrets and the devastating influence of Pennywise. The cast’s dedication to portraying these complex roles firmly positions It: Welcome to Derry as a standout entry in King’s extensive body of work and the broader horror television landscape.
