Media outlets are reporting that HBO Max has given a series order for the It prequel series Welcome To Derry.

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The series is believed to be set to begin in the 1960s and then lead up to the events of 2017’s It, and it is also said to include the origin story of Pennywise the Clown.

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Andy and Barbara Muschietti, who have developed the project, released a statement saying:

As teenagers, we took turns reading chapters of Stephen King’s ‘It’ until the thick paperback fell to pieces. ‘It’ is an epic story that contains multitudes, far beyond what we could explore in our ‘It’ movies. We can’t wait to share the depths of Steve’s novel, in all its heart, humour, humanity and horror.

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Jason Fuchs also released a statement saying:

To be able to return to the world of my all-time favourite horror novel and help build upon the singularly brilliant cinematic universe created by Andy and Barbara is more than the opportunity of a lifetime, it’s a dream come true — or, maybe more appropriately, a nightmare.

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Stephen King also released a statement saying:

I’m excited that the story of Derry, Maine’s most haunted city, is continuing, and I’m glad Andy Muschietti is going to be overseeing the frightening festivities, along with a brain trust including his talented sister, Barbara. Red balloons all around!.

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Sarah Aubrey, Head of Original Content for HBO Max, also released a statement saying:

We are thrilled to continue this iconic franchise with the brilliant Andy and Barbara Muschietti, Jason Fuchs, and Brad Caleb Kane. This prequel will expand the ‘It’ storytelling canvas and bring fans deeper into the terrifying, mesmerising town of Derry.

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An ‘It’ prequel series was announced back in March of this year, with HBO Max given it a series production commitment. Late last year it was reported that Jason Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane will serve as co-showrunners on the series. Fuchs, who is also executive producer, is writing the teleplay for the first episode of the series, while Andy Muschietti will direct multiple episodes, including the pilot. Shelley Meals, Roy Lee and Dan Lin also serve as executive producers.