Which upcoming Max original series serves as a prequel to the 'It' film series, exploring the origins of Pennywise and the haunting history of the town of Derry in the 1960s?

The upcoming Max original series that delves into the eerie origins of Pennywise and the haunting past of Derry, Maine, in the 1960s is titled "IT: Welcome to Derry (Review)." This highly anticipated show serves as a direct prequel to the acclaimed "It" films from 2017 and 2019, expanding upon the terrifying universe established by Stephen King's iconic novel. Developed by Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti, and Jason Fuchs, the same creative team behind the recent cinematic adaptations, the series promises to maintain the unsettling tone and visual style that captivated audiences.

"IT: Welcome to Derry" is set in 1962, approximately 27 years before the events depicted in the first "It" film. The narrative explores Pennywise's earliest awakenings and its manipulative influence on the cursed town, drawing heavily from the "interludes" found within King's original novel that detail Derry's dark history through Mike Hanlon's research. This allows the series to explore not only the entity's own backstory but also the insidious evil woven into the very fabric of Derry itself, explaining why Pennywise consistently returns to this specific location to prey on its inhabitants.

A significant highlight for fans is the return of Bill Skarsgård, who reprises his chilling role as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. His portrayal was central to the success of the recent films, and his involvement in the prequel ensures a consistent and terrifying depiction of the ancient, shapeshifting entity. The series, which premiered on October 26, 2025, is designed to further connect the dots within the "It" timeline, revealing the horrifying events that unfolded during one of Pennywise's 27-year cycles of terror before the Losers' Club confronted it.