After a long absence from screens, Bill Skarsgård’s Pennywise performance in the new series It: Welcome to Derry has finally made its much-anticipated entrance, five episodes into the show’s run. This appearance, which took place in Derry and followed weeks of lead-up, marks the first time Skarsgård has reprised the iconic Stephen King character since the 2019 film It Chapter Two.
Pennywise’s Shape-Shifting and the Show’s Unique Approach
Unlike previous iterations, the series has emphasized the shapeshifting monster’s ability to assume various forms, not just the haunting clown visage. Up until now, the entity—better known as Pennywise—has appeared in several disguises, with the most recent transformation revealing itself as Matty, a missing child from the first episode. This approach brings new layers to the horror and suspense the series is known for, as viewers never quite know what form the danger will take next.
Showrunner and Director Reflect on Skarsgård’s Performance and Process
As the show gears up for more episodes, those involved have hinted at a series of unexpected moments featuring Skarsgård’s version of Pennywise. Showrunner Jason Fuchs told Entertainment Weekly,
“[Skarsgård’s] performance goes to some unexpected places [in the weeks ahead],”
Jason Fuchs, Showrunner. He further explained,
“[He] has opportunities with this character that the story of the films did not present. Not only are you getting a really, hopefully, thrilling build-up to seeing Pennywise, you are gonna see Bill doing things you’ve not seen him do in this character yet.”
Jason Fuchs, Showrunner. Fuchs’ comments signal that classic horror fans and newcomers alike can expect Skarsgård to explore new territory with Pennywise as the season continues.
Reflecting on what it took for Skarsgård to return, executive producer Andy Muschietti previously told SFX magazine,
“When we started talking about the series as something that was real and tangible, he had played a lot of very dark characters, and he was a little hesitant to go into it again,”
Andy Muschietti, Executive Producer. He added,
“Because, obviously, for someone that takes his work and his art so seriously as him, it takes a toll to live in the head of those characters for a long time.”
Andy Muschietti, Executive Producer. The emotional difficulty and depth involved underline the dedication Skarsgård brings to his role, as he grapples with revisiting a character so deeply unsettling.
Anticipation Builds for the Remainder of the Season
With three episodes still remaining, viewers are left wondering what further surprises might await both Skarsgård’s Pennywise and the other residents of Derry. The series, grounded in Stephen King’s original world, continues to push the boundaries of the horror spin-off genre. New episodes are made available weekly on major platforms like HBO and Sky, keeping fans eager for each new installment and every shocking reveal.
Looking Forward: The Significance of the Return
Bill Skarsgård’s highly anticipated return as Pennywise offers It: Welcome to Derry the chance to delve deeper into the mythos of the character, with the creative team promising territory not explored in the previous films. As Derry’s residents and viewers brace for more twists in the horror saga, Skarsgård’s portrayal and the vision behind the spin-off are set to keep audiences intrigued until the season’s end, further cementing Pennywise’s legacy in popular culture.
