Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about Pennywise, because the creators of HBO’s IT: Welcome to Derry are here to set the record straight—and trust me, it’s not what you expect. The biggest misconception about Pennywise? That he’s just one thing. But here’s where it gets controversial: the Muschiettis reveal that Pennywise is far more than a single creature, and this is the part most people miss. Let’s dive in.
IT: Welcome to Derry isn’t just another horror spinoff—it’s a prequel set in 1962, smack in the middle of one of Pennywise’s violent cycles in the cursed town of Derry, Maine. While Bill Skarsgard reprises his iconic role as the shape-shifting killer clown, the rest of the cast is fresh, and the creative team includes returning filmmakers Andy and Barbara Muschietti, along with writer Jason Fuchs as co-showrunner. But here’s the kicker: Pennywise doesn’t show up in his most famous form for a while, even though his chilling presence is felt from the very first scene. Why? Because the Muschiettis played a clever game of anticipation, proving that sometimes less is more—until it’s time for more is more. And this is where it gets even more intriguing.
In an exclusive chat with The Hollywood Reporter, the Argentine producer-directors (known for hits like Mama and The Flash) spilled the beans on their approach. Andy Muschietti admitted, ‘We weren’t even aware of the pitfalls of spinning off a horror movie into a TV series. We just focused on replicating the tone and style of the films that fans loved.’ Barbara added, ‘Horror is director-driven, so Andy directed four episodes, ensuring the vision stayed true.’ But what about Pennywise’s limited screen time? Barbara explains, ‘We didn’t want the audience to get comfortable with him. He’s unpredictable—striking when you least expect it.’
Here’s the real mind-bender: Pennywise isn’t just one creature; he’s a master of hallucinations, creating collective horrors like the piranha swarm. Andy clarifies, ‘It’s part of the canon, even in Stephen King’s book. Pennywise isn’t limited to one form.’ Speaking of King, the Muschiettis had his full trust. ‘He let us play with his toys,’ Andy said. ‘We’re filling in the gaps of the puzzle he intentionally left unsolved.’ Barbara revealed their bold vision: ‘Each season explores a different cycle of Pennywise’s terror—a concept King loved.’
And this is the part most people miss: The military plays a surprisingly large role in the story, set against the backdrop of the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. ‘Derry is home to the northernmost military base in the U.S.,’ Andy explained. ‘The tension of that era fuels the narrative in unexpected ways.’
So, here’s the question for you: Does Pennywise’s shape-shifting nature make him scarier, or does it dilute the fear? And what do you think about the military’s expanded role in this prequel? Let’s debate in the comments—because one thing’s for sure, IT: Welcome to Derry is anything but predictable.
