Writer Shelley Meals has confirmed that HBO’s WELCOME TO DERRY series has kicked off its writers’ room.
In March of this year, it was announced that a prequel series to the horror film “It,” titled “Welcome to Derry,” was in development for HBO Max. Now, writer Shelley Meals has confirmed that the show is progressing as the writers’ room has been opened. The series aims to explore the backstory of the fictional town of Derry and its dark history, serving as a prequel to the events depicted in the “It” film.
First day of WELCOME TO DERRY writers room! We float down here🎈 pic.twitter.com/sj48uvPfAn
— Shelley Meals (@1TallGrl) June 14, 2022
When initial reports of the “Welcome to Derry” series surfaced in March, it was uncertain how far along the development process was and if Warner Bros. would give it the green light. However, the recent news of a writers’ room being formed indicates that the studio has confidence in the project. The presence of the writers’ room suggests that progress is being made, and the inclusion of festive red balloons alludes to the eerie and captivating world of “It.” With the success of the “It” film, there are high hopes for the prequel series.
“It” became one of the most financially successful surprises in Hollywood, grossing over $700 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing horror movie ever. Its sequel, “It: Chapter Two,” also achieved great success, earning $469 million. The films explored the horrifying presence of Pennywise in the town of Derry, Maine, but there is still much more to discover about the character’s extensive history in the town. This opens up the possibility of exploring new and intriguing stories within the “It” universe through the prequel series “Welcome to Derry.”
Andy Muschietti, the director of the “It” films, will be involved in the prequel series as a producer, along with Barbara Muschietti. The series is set to take place in the 1960s, approximately 27 years before the events of the first film that occurred in 1989. Jason Fuchs, who developed the show, is likely part of the writers’ room with Shelley Meals. As for other writers and contributors, it remains to be seen. It is expected that Muschietti will direct at least the first episode of the series.
The status of Bill Skarsgård’s involvement as Pennywise in “Welcome to Derry” remains uncertain. While it seems logical to have the iconic character in the prequel series for commercial reasons, there hasn’t been an official announcement regarding Skarsgård’s participation. The show could potentially explore the story without him, but it would likely be a disappointment for many fans. Given the significant role Pennywise plays in the “It” franchise, it is expected that the creators will make efforts to bring Skarsgård back. Since the series is set in the past, it is likely that new characters will be introduced to face the terrifying clown.
