IT: CHAPTER TWO: Sounds Like Bill Hader’s Headed For Derry

Earlier today we learned that IT: Chapter Two would begin filming this July, a development which suggested it wouldn't be long before we heard further casting news for Andy Muschietti's sequel (until now, only Jessica Chastain has been directly tied to the film).

And, hey - whatta ya know? Less than an hour later, that's exactly what's happened.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Bill Hader (HBO's Barry) and James McAvoy (Split) are both in talks to star in IT: Chapter Two, taking on the adult roles of "Trashmouth" Richie Tozier and "Stuttering" Bill Denbrough, respectively. THR also confirms that Chastain is onboard to play Beverly "January Embers" Marsh, and that Bill Skarsgård will reprise his role as Pennywise. 

This is extremely exciting news. While we've long championed the idea of casting relative unknowns for the adult version of the Losers' Club, it's hard to deny how great this casting is: Hader's a perfect choice for the motor-mouthed, constantly "on" Tozier, and McAvoy's just a goddamn force to be reckoned with (see also: the aforementioned Split). One can't help but wonder what other talent will be drawn to the remaining roles; performers of Chastain, Hader and McAvoy's stature indicate that WB is really swinging for the fences here.

We're hyped. How 'bout y'all? Sound off in the comments below, and stand by for more on IT: Chapter Two as it becomes available.