Chances of IT 3 Discussed by Franchise Star in Light of Stephen King Prequel Show: “That’s The Truth”

Isaiah Mustafa, known for his role in the IT franchise, has recently discussed the intriguing possibility of reprising his character for a potential third film. His comments come just as the franchise is set to grow with the upcoming prequel series, Welcome to Derry, which expands on Stephen King’s iconic horror universe first introduced in the 1986 novel. In IT: Chapter Two, Mustafa portrayed the adult Mike Hanlon, a character originally introduced by Chosen Jacobs in the first film.

Scheduled for release later this year, Welcome to Derry will maintain continuity with Andy Muschietti’s acclaimed two-part film adaptation. Notably, Bill Skarsgård is set to reprise his chilling performance as Pennywise.

In a recent interview with Screen Rant during his promotional work for an Instacart advertisement ahead of the Super Bowl, Mustafa addressed inquiries regarding his possible return to the franchise. Although he was initially skeptical about another installment following the conclusion of IT: Chapter Two, he playfully remarked that he could “never say never” when it comes to reprising the role of Mike Hanlon in a future film. His exact words were:

I could never say never, especially with a franchise like IT. You never know when you’ll see Mike Hanlon pop up, and that’s the truth. But I’ve never thought that there wouldn’t be anything to continue the story.

Moreover, Mustafa expressed optimism about the Welcome to Derry series, suggesting it would enrich the narrative of the franchise significantly. He had the privilege of visiting the set during its production and was personally guided by Muschietti. Although he didn’t have to sign a non-disclosure agreement, he remained discreet about the details he witnessed, humorously noting the secrecy surrounding the project:

I think Welcome to Derry will continue the story in ways fans will really appreciate and really love. It’ll fill in some gaps. I was lucky enough to go on set while I was in Toronto, and Andy was directing the episode that I went to. It was really, really cool to see those guys. No spoilers, though. I did not sign an NDA, but I know better than to say anything about what’s coming. I don’t even know if he was directing, I just saw him, he directed me into the building, that’s it.[Laughs] “Look at that. Look at that. Don’t talk about that. Oh, and then that right there? You didn’t see that.”

Implications of Mustafa’s Comments for a Possible IT 3

Exploring Other Avenues for Mike Hanlon’s Return

Adult Mike on the phone in IT Chapter Two

Pennywise ominously looking at a young girl

Following the climactic finale of IT: Chapter Two, where Mike Hanlon and his friends seemingly vanquish Pennywise once and for all, one might assume the chances of a sequel featuring Mustafa’s character are slim. However, as he implies, there remains a lingering possibility for Mike Hanlon or his fellow Losers to make appearances in future narratives.

Welcome to Derry aims to delve into the past over three planned seasons, beginning in 1962 and culminating in 1908. This storytelling approach presents room for potential flash-forward cameos that could connect back to the original cast, including Mustafa.

Our Perspective on Mike Hanlon’s Possible Comeback

Mike Hanlon’s Presence Beyond IT

Adult Mike examining his hand in IT Chapter Two

While the prospect of Mustafa returning for another IT installment appears uncertain, the character of Mike Hanlon has ties to several other Stephen King works, which opens new pathways for his return. The series Welcome to Derry may integrate the characters from the original films through strategic flash-forwards.

Additionally, King’s 1994 novel Insomnia, which is also set in the eerie town of Derry, features Mike Hanlon in its narrative following the climactic events of IT. This interconnected universe of King’s storytelling suggests that a spinoff focused on Mike could still materialize, offering fans another chance to see Mustafa back in his iconic role.

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