HBO’s horror series IT: Welcome to Derry concludes its eight episode debut season on Sunday, leaving fans wondering whether Pennywise the Dancing Clown will return for IT: Welcome to Derry Season 2.
The series, a television adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic 1986 novel IT, has drawn strong viewership numbers and critical attention since its premiere on Oct. 26.
Welcome to Derry expands on the world established in the feature films and brings a deeper exploration of the characters and town of Derry,” said Jason Fuchs, the showrunner of the series.
“We are thrilled by the audience’s response and hope to continue the story.” The series stars Bill Skarsgård, reprising his role as Pennywise from the 2017 and 2019 IT films directed by Andy Muschietti.
The television adaptation was developed by Andy Muschietti, Barbara Muschietti and Jason Fuchs. It also features performances by Jovan Adepo, Taylour Paige, Chris Chalk, James Remar, Stephen Rider, Madeleine Stowe and Rudy Mancuso.
IT: Welcome to Derry is set in Stephen King’s fictional town of Derry, Maine, and follows the intertwined lives of its residents as they confront both personal and supernatural horrors. Unlike the films, the series format allows for more in depth exploration of secondary characters and town history.
Entertainment analyst Rachel Kim said the series’ strong debut indicates a healthy appetite for horror adaptations in long form television.
“HBO has found success with serialized horror that combines literary source material with cinematic production values,” Kim said. “Ratings performance will be crucial for a renewal, and so far the numbers are promising.”
Film historian Dr. Malcolm Hayes added that Skarsgård’s return as Pennywise provides continuity for viewers familiar with the film adaptations, which may increase the likelihood of a second season.
“Keeping the same actor in such an iconic role signals the network’s commitment to maintaining the franchise’s integrity,” Hayes said.
The series’ pilot episode attracted 5.7 million cross platform viewers on HBO and HBO Max in its first three days, according to The Wrap. The seventh episode, which aired last week, drew 5.8 million viewers over the same period, demonstrating consistent engagement.
The only HBO Max series to debut higher were House of the Dragon and The Last of Us, marking IT: Welcome to Derry as the third biggest launch in platform history.
Such performance metrics are typically key factors when networks consider renewing limited series for additional seasons. Fans have expressed anticipation and curiosity about the possibility of a continuation.
“The show really expanded the story from the movies,” said Jordan Lewis, a viewer from Los Angeles. “I would love to see what happens next with the town and its characters.”
Horror enthusiast and blogger Maria Fernandez noted, “Pennywise is terrifying, but the series gives a lot more time to develop the other characters. There’s definitely room for a season two.”
HBO has not officially confirmed IT: Welcome to Derry Season 2, though production sources cited by Variety suggest discussions are ongoing.
Analysts say that while ratings are strong, final renewal decisions will likely consider production budgets, scheduling, and cast availability.
“The network is in a good position to continue the series,” said Kim. “The combination of strong viewership and a built in fan base makes a second season plausible, if not probable.”
As IT: Welcome to Derry wraps its first season, fans and industry observers are left weighing the chances of IT: Welcome to Derry Season 2.
While official confirmation remains pending, the series’ solid ratings and audience enthusiasm indicate that Pennywise’s story in Derry may not yet be finished. The coming months will likely determine whether the town of Derry returns to the small screen.
