The trailer for IT: Welcome to Derry episode 3 expands on ties to Stephen King's universe, introducing a key reference to one of King's most beloved adaptations. The prequel series is set 27 years before the original IT movie, exploring the eerie town of Derry.
In a pivotal moment, Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider) is imprisoned and questioned:
“Do you know what they do to kiddy-killers in Shawshank?”
This line references the 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, famously adapted into a critically acclaimed film. Hank is being framed for the deaths occurring at the end of episode 1.
Throughout the trailer, Halloran is haunted by a carnival barker’s eerie call:
“Step right up.”
This phrase becomes an unsettling refrain, signaling growing danger within the story.
Author’s summary: The episode 3 trailer of IT: Welcome to Derry deepens Stephen King lore with key references, expanding the story through character ties and ominous foreshadowing.