Jessica Chastain in negotiations to star in WB/New Line's 'It: Chapter 2'

In the nearly eight years I've been writing about movies online, I've never seen a scoop generate as much excitement as this one. And that's not because the news itself is all that spectacular- it's a result of the incessant hype that Variety's Justin Kroll drummed up on Twitter. After revealing that big news was coming on Tuesday and telling other prominent film reporters to get ready, internet speculation over Kroll's possible report reached a fever pitch. Was it news related to the DC Universe? Was Kroll going to reveal the director of Bond 25? The announcement of Christopher Nolan's next film? Kroll continued to toy with his captive audience with a series of cryptic GIFs, including a scene from Nolan's The Prestige, pictures of Ryan Gosling and Daniel Craig, and an image of a smiling Viola Davis. When the article was finally published on Variety, Kroll even acknowledged that a good chunk of people were probably disappointed. But this is still big news for a much-anticipated sequel, and it's sure to generate some discussion in online circles.


Just a few hours ago, Variety's Kroll announced that Jessica Chastain is in talks to star as the adult version of Beverly Marsh in Warner Bros. and New Line's It: Chapter 2. The talks are still in the early stages, as the report notes that there isn't even a completed script for this sequel. However, Chastain is the obvious choice for the role for a multitude of reasons. She worked with director Andy Muschietti on Mama, who is "expected to return" for Chapter 2 after leading the 2017 smash hit to box office glory and critical acclaim. But in addition to that industry tidbit, Chastain has long been the fan favorite for the role, which was played by Sophia Lillis in the first installment of the two-part saga. Horror fans and casual audiences alike have been clamoring for her involvement, and it's understandable that the studio wants to have such a high-profile actor in the sequel. While official confirmation of Chastain's involvement is nice, I'm more interested to see who gets cast as some of the other adult members of the Losers' Club. Word has been quiet on that front, but with a planned summer production start, I have to imagine that the casting dominoes will begin to fall. For now, enjoy the fact that your fan casting dreams have come true.

It: Chapter 2 will arrive in theaters on September 6, 2019.


Images via STX Films and Warner Bros./New Line

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