Stephen King fans have had a banner year, with acclaimed adaptations like The Long Walk and The Running Man hitting screens. But one of the most anticipated returns is on the small screen: HBO has officially renewed IT: Welcome to Derry for a second season, much to the delight of horror enthusiasts.
The news comes after the first season of the prequel series, which premiered in late 2025, became a massive hit for the network. The show, which expands the universe of Andy Muschietti's IT films, earned solid reviews—80% from critics and 82% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes—and drew strong viewership numbers. Now, HBO is doubling down on the terror.
What's Next for Derry?
According to the official synopsis, Season 2 will jump back to 1935, during the Great Depression. The story centers on the bloody massacre of the Bradley Gang, a group of bank robbers who stop in Derry to buy ammunition and instead encounter unimaginable horror. It's a fresh chapter in Pennywise's lore, promising more of the eerie, small-town dread that made the first season so compelling.
Bill Skarsgård is set to reprise his iconic role as Pennywise the Dancing Clown, a character he first brought to life in the 2017 and 2019 films. His return is sure to send chills down spines, as his portrayal has become synonymous with modern horror.
While no release date has been announced yet, reports suggest Season 2 could arrive in 2027. Fans will have to wait a bit longer to return to Derry, but the promise of a new era of terror is worth the anticipation.
For those who haven't caught up, the first season of IT: Welcome to Derry is currently streaming on HBO Max. If you're a fan of King's work, you might also enjoy exploring his best psychological thrillers or checking out the books that even superfans find tough to finish. And if you're in the mood for more horror, there's always the 'Smile' prequel comic to tide you over.
Stay tuned for more updates on IT: Welcome to Derry Season 2 as they emerge. The nightmare is far from over.
