Overview
- HBO reports 5.7 million U.S. viewers in the first three days after the two-episode launch, with episode 2 released early for Halloween.
- A new episode 3 teaser showcases crossovers with The Shining through Dick Hallorann and references Shawshank State Prison.
- Co-creator Barbara Muschietti says filming paused for about eight months after most of three episodes were shot, requiring climate changes on screen and a different ending.
- Viewers are advised to expect noticeable continuity adjustments—especially by episode 4—due to weather shifts and child actors’ growth during the delay.
- Set in 1962, the prequel builds out family ties to future Losers’ Club members and expands links across Stephen King’s broader universe.