What is the focus of the IT: Welcome To Derry prequel series?

The IT: Welcome To Derry prequel series focuses on exploring the backstory of Dick Hallorann, the psychic chef from The Shining, before his days at the Overlook Hotel.

How is Dick Hallorann portrayed in the IT prequel compared to his previous appearances?

In the IT prequel, Dick Hallorann is depicted as a more selfish and less compassionate character in 1962, in contrast to the genial mentor figure he is known as in The Shining.

What are Dick Hallorann's abilities in the IT prequel?

In the IT prequel, Dick Hallorann is revealed to have psychic "Shine" abilities, which he uses to guide teams in their search for something powerful in the town of Derry, Maine.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Prequel Reveals Untold Origins of Iconic Shining Character

Prequel Reveals Untold Origins of Iconic Shining Character

5 Nov, 2025

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Summary

IT: Welcome To Derry prequel explores young Dick Hallorann's psychic abilities
Hallorann is portrayed as a more selfish, less compassionate character in 1962
Showrunners aim to establish room for Hallorann's growth before his Overlook Hotel days

Prequel Reveals Untold Origins of Iconic Shining Character

According to the article, the new IT prequel series, IT: Welcome To Derry, is providing a fresh take on the character of Dick Hallorann, known to Stephen King fans from The Shining and Doctor Sleep. Set in 1962, the series depicts Hallorann, played by Chris Chalk, as a very different man than the genial, compassionate figure audiences are familiar with.

In the prequel, Hallorann is part of a special Air Force operation in the town of Derry, Maine, using his psychic "Shine" abilities to guide teams in their search for something powerful. Showrunners Jason Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane explain that this version of Hallorann is more selfish and focused on his own fate, in contrast to the caring mentor he would later become.