In October 2025, HBO premiered IT: Welcome to Derry, a long-awaited prequel series expanding the terrifying universe of Stephen King’s IT. The show takes viewers back to the town of Derry, Maine — decades before the events of the famous films — to explore how the nightmare truly began.
The first episode aired on October 26, 2025, and new episodes are released weekly. Season one consists of eight episodes, with the finale scheduled for mid-December 2025. The series is available on HBO and HBO Max, with international distribution through platforms like Sky Max and NOW in several countries.
Set in 1962, the story focuses on a new generation of residents as unexplained disappearances, fear and violence begin to spread across Derry. Long-time fans will immediately recognize familiar themes: cyclical evil, collective trauma and the unsettling presence of something ancient lurking beneath the town.
Bill Skarsgård returns as Pennywise, a decision that instantly drew attention and excitement from fans. The cast also includes Jovan Adepo, Taylour Paige and Chris Chalk, portraying characters whose lives become entangled with the dark history of Derry.

Early reviews have been largely positive. Critics praise the series for its atmosphere, attention to detail and willingness to dive deeper into the mythology behind Pennywise. Many highlight the slow-burn tension and the unsettling tone that feels closer to Stephen King’s original novel than the blockbuster adaptations.
Some reviews note that the series leans heavily on mood rather than jump scares, which fans of psychological horror tend to appreciate. Audience reactions online show active discussion, theories and comparisons with the original films — a sign that the show has successfully reignited interest in the IT universe.
While HBO has not officially confirmed a second season yet, both critics and viewers are already speculating about how the finale might set up future chapters.

Horror series are surprisingly effective tools for language learning. The dialogue is emotional, context-rich and filled with everyday expressions, which makes it easier to remember new words and phrases.
If you’re watching IT: Welcome to Derry in the original English, here’s how to turn entertainment into real progress.
If you’re just starting (A2–B1)
Watch with English subtitles, not translated ones.

• Focus on understanding the general meaning rather than every word.
• Write down 5–7 useful phrases from each episode and review them later.
• Pause scenes when emotions are strong — fear, anger, surprise — these moments help words stick.

If you’re at an intermediate level (B1–B2)
Try watching part of the episode without subtitles, then rewatch key scenes with subtitles on.

• Pay attention to how characters express fear, doubt and suspicion — these phrases are very natural and commonly used.
• Summarize the episode out loud in English, even if only for yourself.
• If you’re advanced (C1+)Watch entirely without subtitles and focus on accents and intonation.
• Write a short review or theory about the episode in English.
• Join online discussions or forums and comment in English — this is real-world practice.

Try using these expressions in your own sentences after each episode.
Turning series into real speaking skillsWatching alone is useful — but discussing what you’ve watched makes the difference. Talking about characters, plot twists and theories activates vocabulary and builds confidence.

At Native Speakers Courses, we regularly use movies and TV series as learning material. Discussing real content helps students stop translating in their heads and start thinking in English.
Want to improve your English with native speakers? If you’d like to turn series like IT: Welcome to Derry into real speaking practice, join us at Native Speakers Courses.

Book a free trial lesson with a native speaker and you will:

• practice speaking from the very first minute,
• learn how to understand fast, natural English,
• expand your vocabulary through real dialogue,
• get a personalized learning plan based on your level and interests.

Learning English doesn’t have to feel like studying — sometimes it starts with a great series.