Following the news that Jessica Chastain has most likely joined “It: Chapter 2,” it appears the Losers Club may have two new members in Bill Hader and James McAvoy. Variety reports that both actors are in talks to join the horror sequel, the former as Richie (played by Finn Wolfhard of “Stranger Things” last year’s “It”) and the latter as Bill (Jaeden Lieberher). Andrés Muschietti will return to the director’s chair for the sequel, which takes place decades after the original.
Negotiations are in the early phase and nothing has been finalized as of yet. “It: Chapter 2” is set to begin shooting in Toronto this summer, with producer Roy Lee telling IndieWire that “the script is still being finalized and the locations are currently being scouted” in order to meet that schedule.
The second adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, “It” was hugely successful despite a troubled production process that saw it switch directors. The film garnered strong reviews and made $700 million against a budget of $35 million, making the upcoming sequel — which is slated for a September 6, 2019 theatrical release — a certainty.
Update: Chastain appears to have confirmed her casting via Instagram:
