HBO Max has officially confirmed that the acclaimed horror series IT: Welcome to Derry will return for a second season, this time set in 1935 during the Great Depression. The announcement comes after the first season, released in 2025, earned an 80% Rotten Tomatoes rating and widespread fan praise.
Season One Success and Fan Reaction
The first season, set in 1962, explored the dark history of Derry and the origins of Pennywise, serving as a prequel to the films IT and IT Chapter Two. Fans were effusive in their praise, with one writing: "One of the best series i've ever seen." Another commented: "This is honestly the best Stephen King adaptation we've had in years. It captures the atmosphere of Derry perfectly."
A third viewer stated: "This is one of the best horror series I've ever seen!" The show's success has built high expectations for the upcoming season.
Season Two Details and Logline
The official logline for season two reads: "Set in the world of Stephen King's IT universe, IT: WELCOME TO DERRY is based on King's IT novel and expands the vision established by filmmaker Andy Muschietti in the feature films IT and IT Chapter Two."
The new season takes place in 1935 and centres on the bloody massacre of the Bradley Gang, a group of bank robbers who stop in Derry to buy ammo and end up facing unimaginable horror. HBO Max teased the return on social media with the message: "935. #ITWelcomeToDerry will return for Season Two."
Mixed Fan Reactions
Reactions to the announcement have been mixed. Some fans expressed excitement, with one writing: "Now THIS IS WHAT WE WANT HBO." Another said: "Now this is the news I like to hear." A third commented: "Pennywise really said 'I'm not done with Derry yet'. Season 2 in 1935 hits different. Who else is already scared?"
Others were more cautious. One person replied: "This 1935 pennywise is the laziest idea yet and y'all are gonna eat it up," while another echoed: "That 1935 bit is dumb, and all the hype around it is exactly why we get lame prequels instead of actual horror."
Production and Release Date
Sarah Aubrey, Head of HBO Max Original Programming, confirmed the second season, saying: "We are excited to return to the chilling world of Derry and to further expand on Andy and Barbara Muschietti's horrifically iconic adaptation." She added: "Together with Brad Caleb Kane, they will break new ground in season two, deepening the terror, the mystery, and the unforgettable Pennywise lore that fans love to devour."
While some fans have predicted a release date of 2030, no official premiere date has been announced. Season one is currently available to stream on HBO Max.
