HBO's 'It: Welcome to Derry' is about to drop a bombshell for fans of Stephen King's interconnected universe. But here's the twist: it's not just any connection, it's a direct link to another iconic King movie!
The show, set in 1962, serves as a prequel to the 2017 and 2019 'It' films, and it's about to blow the minds of King enthusiasts. Chris Chalk, known for his roles in 'Gotham' and 'Perry Mason', takes on the role of Dick Hallorann, a character with a surprising backstory. And this is where it gets intriguing... Hallorann, best known as the head chef in 'The Shining', has a deep-rooted connection to Derry, the setting of 'It'.
Chalk playfully teases fans who haven't read the original 'It' novel, hinting at Hallorann's unexpected presence in Derry. But the real surprise is how the show will portray a younger, edgier Hallorann, a far cry from the mentor figure in 'The Shining'.
Andy and Barbara Muschietti, the masterminds behind the 'It' films, are expanding the story, revealing that 'It' is just the tip of the iceberg in the vast Stephen King-verse. And Dick Hallorann is the key to unlocking this interconnected world. With multiple actors having portrayed him, Hallorann's character has evolved, and the HBO show promises a unique take.
The series delves into Hallorann's early days in Derry, exploring his internal conflicts and a side of him fans haven't seen before. Chalk hints at a darker, more rebellious Hallorann, a stark contrast to the nurturing figure in 'The Shining'. And this new portrayal couldn't be more fitting, given the show's themes of fear and racial tensions.
As the show interrogates fear through Pennywise and racial dynamics, Hallorann becomes the perfect vessel to navigate these complex themes. So, get ready for a wild ride when 'It: Welcome to Derry' premieres on HBO, October 26, 2025. And brace yourself for a version of Dick Hallorann that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about this beloved character.
