The trailer for IT: Welcome to Derry episode 3 unveils a major connection to one of Stephen King's most beloved film adaptations. The series is set 27 years before the original IT movie and includes numerous references to King's universe.
Beyond the well-known IT story, the show introduces Dick Halloran (played by Chris Chalk), a character from The Shining. The episode also includes numerous Easter eggs referencing King's work.
In the episode 3 trailer, Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider), imprisoned after being framed for the murders in episode 1, is asked,
“Do you know what they do to kiddy-killers in Shawshank?”
This line references the setting of King's 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, which was adapted into the acclaimed movie The Shawshank Redemption.
The carnival barker's eerie refrain grows more unsettling throughout the trailer, adding to the suspense and mystery.
Author's summary: The latest IT: Welcome to Derry trailer deepens its ties to Stephen King's universe, mixing suspense, iconic references, and new character arcs.