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The series Welcome to Derry contains numerous connections to Stephen King's vast library of stories. Beyond the clear links to It, the series showcases an explicit link to King's famous novel through the appearance of the youthful future chef of the Overlook Hotel. Now, as the narrative progresses, Welcome to Derry is integrating another classic tale from King that deserves a revisit.

The Powerful Tale of The Shawshank Redemption

While The Shawshank Redemption may not be classified as a horror film, especially compared to much of King's other writing, it is a haunting story about an innocently imprisoned man sentenced to live his remaining years inside a infamous penitentiary. And it's that very penitentiary that becomes important here, as Shawshank State Prison holds significant history across King's fictional world — a tradition that continues in It: Welcome to Derry.

Some of the tales that reference the prison are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Through these stories, we discover regarding the terrible conditions inside the state penitentiary and several of those imprisoned there, such as the boyfriend of one of Pennywise's initial victims, who was convicted for robbery with a weapon.

Thus far, however, the most we have discovered about the prison has been via the perspective of Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by the actor Tim Robbins in the 1994 film. Andy ends up in Shawshank after his wrongful conviction, then experiences beaten and abused by fellow inmates, and exploited by those in authority figures due to his financial knowledge. He requires him 28 years to tunnel an escape route from Shawshank, prior to making his way "through a river of shit" to take back his liberty.

Shawshank's Role in Welcome to Derry

Regarding the series, viewers first learned of Shawshank's involvement via an early trailer for the series, where a correctional transport appeared with the name painted on the side. During the second episode, we learn which character is likely destined for Shawshank.

Though we know he was not commit the child deaths initially, Hank Grogan (played by Stephen Rider), dad to Ronnie (Amanda Christine), gets taken into custody for the crimes. A teaser for episode 3, "the upcoming installment," reveals a guard telling Hank in his cell, "Are you aware what happens to child murderers at that prison?"

The Implications for Hank and Ronnie

Considering that the actual killer in the town is an ancient power from another world preying on and murdering children, Hank's prospects of clearing his name appear slim. And even if he ends up to Shawshank and viewers don't follow him inside, understanding what is known regarding Shawshank makes it clear that his time there would be far from enjoyable.

Crucially, though, this development would endanger his daughter. He acts as her guardian. Terrible events are occurring around Derry that nobody, child or adult, understands and Ronnie only has her recently formed of friends to depend on. She will require her dad as the story progresses, but if the prison system has any say, she may be out of luck.

A single fact is apparent: Hank doesn’t have 28 years to dig his way out.

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It: Welcome to Derry the first two episodes are streaming now via the streaming service. New episodes air weekly on Sundays.