IT: Welcome To Derry Episode 3 Trailer Reveals a Key Stephen King Connection
The trailer for episode 3 of IT: Welcome to Derry unveils a major link to one of Stephen King’s favorite film adaptations. The prequel series is set 27 years before the events of the first IT movie, exploring Derry’s sinister atmosphere long before the Losers’ Club faced Pennywise.
Connections to King’s Universe
Among its many ties to King’s works, the show features Dick Halloran (played by Chris Chalk), known from The Shining, and several hidden references to King’s stories. The latest trailer deepens these connections by introducing a nod to another iconic setting.
“Do you know what they do to kiddy-killers in Shawshank?”
This chilling line, directed at an imprisoned Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider), references Shawshank Prison from King’s 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, later adapted into the acclaimed film The Shawshank Redemption.
Character Arcs and Plot Developments
In the story, Hank Grogan is being framed for the murders that closed episode 1. His daughter, Lilly Bainbridge (Clara Stack), teams up with Ronnie Grogan (Amanda Christine) to uncover the truth. They seek help from Will Hanlon (Blake Cameron James), whose scientific knowledge may hold the key to clearing Hank’s name.
Meanwhile, Dick Halloran is sent on a mission involving a mysterious military weapon, but his journey is overshadowed by nightmarish visions of a carnival barker repeating a haunting phrase.
“Step right up.”
This eerie refrain echoes throughout the trailer, signaling the deepening horror and psychological tension awaiting Derry’s residents.
Author’s Summary
Episode 3’s trailer expands Stephen King’s interwoven universe through chilling Shawshank references, eerie visions, and a deepening mystery at the heart of Derry.