The upcoming series IT: Welcome to Derry, set to premiere on October 26, 2025, is generating excitement by hinting at significant connections within Stephen King’s expansive multiverse. Among these, a subtle yet impactful Easter egg references Maturin the Turtle, a powerful figure in King’s lore, which raises questions about the potential for a deeper narrative involving the iconic antagonist, Pennywise.
In modern storytelling, interconnectivity across franchises is a key trend, with creators seeking to build intricate universes that allow for multiple spin-offs. This trend is particularly evident in the works of Stephen King, whose over 60 novels often intertwine, most notably through his Dark Tower series. While previous adaptations of IT have focused on standalone narratives, IT: Welcome to Derry appears to be paving the way for a broader exploration of King’s themes, as evidenced by its nods to Maturin.
Maturin: The Cosmic Deity of King’s Multiverse
Viewers may have noticed recurring imagery of turtles in IT: Welcome to Derry. In the opening episode, Derry High School’s mascot is a turtle promoting nuclear safety, while character interactions include trading turtle-themed charms. These references are not mere coincidences; they allude to Maturin, a cosmic entity credited with the creation of the universe within King’s multiverse.
Maturin is typically depicted as a benevolent force, a guide for characters navigating the often dark and twisted realms King has crafted. His role as a guardian aligns him with the Losers’ Club from the original IT narrative, where he assists them in their battle against Pennywise. This dynamic positions Maturin as a fundamental counterbalance to the evil represented by Pennywise, who is often viewed as the embodiment of chaos and destruction.
The Potential for a Larger Narrative
The relationship between Maturin and Pennywise is pivotal, with the latter emerging from the void during the cosmos’ creation. Their ongoing conflict symbolizes the struggle between good and evil, making Maturin one of the few beings capable of challenging Pennywise’s power. While Maturin does not engage in direct combat, his influence is felt throughout the narrative, suggesting potential for his inclusion in future episodes of IT: Welcome to Derry.
Director Andy Muschietti has hinted that the series will connect with the upcoming adaptation of The Dark Tower, currently in development under Mike Flanagan. If Maturin is featured in IT: Welcome to Derry, it could signify a monumental expansion of King’s universe on screen. This connection would not only enrich the narrative but also serve as a bridge to Flanagan’s interpretation of Maturin in The Dark Tower, should his existence be established in the series.
As IT: Welcome to Derry aims to adopt an anthology format across its seasons, integrating the cosmic elements of King’s universe may resonate well with audiences. Such an approach would allow for a more accessible introduction of complex themes, balancing the series’ darker elements with Maturin’s representation of hope and goodness.
By weaving together these intricate layers of storytelling, IT: Welcome to Derry is poised to deliver a fresh perspective on familiar characters while inviting viewers deeper into the expansive world of Stephen King. The series has already hinted at disturbing themes and visuals, suggesting that the introduction of a god-like figure such as Maturin could provide a necessary contrast, enriching the overall experience for fans of horror and fantasy alike.
