The HBO series IT: Welcome to Derry serves as a chilling prequel to the classic IT films, developed for television by filmmakers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti, with co-showrunner Jason Fuchs. Set in 1962, the story explores the sinister origins of the entity haunting the seemingly peaceful town of Derry, Maine. Central figures include U.S. Air Force General Francis Shaw (James Remar), psychic Dick Hallorann (Chris Chalk), and Air Force Major Leroy Hanlon (Jovan Adepo), whose family moves to Derry as events spiral into darkness.

Episode five, “Neibolt Street,” heightens tension as Leroy relocates his family to a military base for protection before undertaking General Shaw’s risky sewer operation. The malevolent entity proves far more formidable than anticipated, forcing Leroy and Hallorann to confront their deepest fears. Meanwhile, Leroy’s son Will (Blake Cameron James) ventures into the sewers with friends, leading to a heart-stopping climax in which Captain Pauly Russo sacrifices himself to prevent tragedy.

Rudy Mancuso, portraying Captain Pauly Russo, spoke about the intensity of filming episode five and his admiration for the Muschiettis. Having collaborated with them previously on The Flash, Mancuso described Andy and Barbara as like family, noting their generous, collaborative approach, which stands out given the series’ dark horror content. He praised their vision as world-builders and their commitment to maintaining a safe and stimulating set environment.

Regarding Pauly Russo, Mancuso revealed that while the character started as a minor role, it evolved during production, with many choices made spontaneously. He described Pauly as an amplified version of himself—quick, witty, reactive, and humorous—driven by a “Napoleon complex” that fuels his clever maneuvers and playful interactions with Leroy’s character. Mancuso emphasized how this combination of traits added depth to the role and heightened audience engagement.

Aware from early on of Pauly’s ultimate sacrifice in the sewers, Mancuso admitted the prospect was intimidating. He credited Andy Muschietti’s direction and the challenging practical set—dark, wet, and filmed late at night—for helping him channel the necessary performance. Despite Pauly’s quirky and fear-driven demeanor, Mancuso felt the sacrifice was authentic, ensuring a meaningful payoff in the story’s escalating tension.