It Welcome to Derry: When does Chapter 2 premiere on HBO Max?

The series "It: Welcome to Derry" marks the return of terror to the town of Derry. This October 26th , the long-awaited prequel to the Stephen King universe premieres on the HBO Max streaming platform, taking us back decades to discover how the fear that shaped an entire generation was born: that of Pennywise the Dancing Clown.

Bill Skarsgard reprises the role that launched him to stardom in this eight-episode series that seeks to expand the "It" universe beyond the "Losers Club" and delve into the darkest secrets of the mysterious fictional town.

What is "Welcome to Derry" about?

Set in 1962 , 27 years before the events of the first film, the series follows a family who moves to Derry just as a young boy mysteriously disappears. This begins a series of events that reveal the presence of an ancient and evil force.

The plot combines supernatural horror with a social backdrop: the racism, repression and violence of the 1960s. "Here, the fear isn't just about Pennywise , but about the indifference and silence of adults," explains Matilda Lawler , the actress who plays Marge in "It: Welcome to Derry."

The series, developed by Andy and Barbara Muschietti alongside Jason Fuchs , explores how fear can divide, but also how friendship can unite.

Published in 1986 , Stephen King's novel "It" not only reinvented literary horror: it turned fear into a social mirror. In "It: Welcome to Derry," that perspective is updated: the horrors of racism, loneliness, and structural violence are still present, they've just changed their face.

In addition to the return of Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, the series' cast includes stars such as:

Taylor Paige
Jovan Adepo
Chris Chalk
James Remar
Madeleine Stowe
Rudy Mancuso

If you want to be prepared for the premiere of "Welcome to Derry," here's the ideal chronological order to watch the franchise:

"It: Welcome to Derry" (series, 2025)
"It" (film, 2017)
"It: Chapter 2" (2019)

Where to watch the second episode of "It: Welcome to Derry"?

The second episode premieres on Sunday, November 2, 2025 , at 7:00 PM (Mexico City time) on the HBO Max platform.

The "It: Welcome to Derry" series will have eight episodes, premiering every Sunday until December 14, as revealed by HBO Max on social media.