Get ready to have your mind blown, Stephen King fans, because HBO’s It: Welcome to Derry isn’t just a prequel—it’s a deep dive into the author’s sprawling 'macroverse,' where every story is connected in ways you might never have imagined. But here’s where it gets controversial: the series introduces Dick Hallorann, a character best known from The Shining, but with roots firmly planted in Derry. Yes, the same Dick Hallorann who mentored young Danny Torrance is now a central figure in this eerie town’s history. And this is the part most people miss: his presence isn’t just a cameo—it’s a game-changer that ties together King’s universe in unexpected ways.
Played by Chris Chalk (who you might recognize as Lucius Fox from Gotham), this version of Hallorann is younger, edgier, and far from the nurturing figure we’ve seen before. During a New York Comic Con panel, Chalk cheekily dismissed fans who questioned Hallorann’s connection to Derry, hinting that true King enthusiasts already know the answer. But what’s really intriguing is how this character evolves. Chalk describes his Hallorann as someone who ‘doesn’t respect a single one of them,’ referring to Derry’s residents, and whose biggest fear is himself. Is this a bold reinterpretation or a faithful expansion of the character? Let’s debate that in the comments.
For those unfamiliar, Hallorann’s ties to Derry go back to King’s original It novel, where he co-founded the Black Spot bar—a pivotal location that becomes a flashpoint for racial tensions in the series. After the bar is burned down by a white supremacist group, Hallorann uses his telepathic abilities to save survivors, including Will Hanlon, father of Mike Hanlon from the Loser’s Club. This sequence, confirmed to be part of the show, not only highlights Derry’s dark history but also positions Hallorann as a key player in the town’s struggles.
Directed by Andy and Barbara Muschietti, the minds behind the It films, Welcome to Derry promises to expand the story in ways that will leave fans reeling. As Andy put it, ‘Everything you know about It is just the tip of the iceberg.’ The series doesn’t just explore the broader Stephen King-verse; it zooms in on local connections, like Hallorann’s role in Derry’s past. But here’s the question: does this interconnected approach enhance the story, or does it risk overcomplicating it? Share your thoughts below.
Hallorann’s inclusion isn’t just a nod to die-hard fans—it’s a strategic move to explore themes of fear, control, and identity, which are central to both It and The Shining. With Pennywise returning (courtesy of Bill Skarsgård) and racial tensions simmering in Derry, Hallorann serves as the perfect bridge between these worlds. His internal struggles—a far cry from the mentor we know—add a layer of complexity that makes him an ideal character for this prequel. If the Muschiettis hadn’t included him, it would’ve felt like a missed opportunity.
Mark your calendars: It: Welcome to Derry premieres on HBO on October 26, 2025. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to King’s universe, this series promises to challenge, surprise, and haunt you. But here’s the real question: will this prequel live up to the hype, or will it leave fans divided? Let’s discuss—and don’t hold back!
