Overview
- Set in 1962, the prequel uses Mike Hanlon’s book interludes as a blueprint and tells a backward‑unfolding origin story for Pennywise.
- Creators confirmed King‑universe links, with Chris Chalk playing a young Dick Hallorann and a storyline connecting to Shawshank State Prison.
- Early footage and panel comments outlined a ‘Jaws’ approach that withholds full clown appearances while manifesting victims’ fears.
- Bill Skarsgård reprises the role and has described this take on Pennywise as “pretty hardcore,” following initial hesitation reported by the team.
- HBO says the series premieres Oct. 26 on HBO and Max in the U.S., with showrunners signaling hopes to explore other 27‑year cycles in potential future seasons.