The year 2024 proved to be a remarkable chapter for Stephen King, characterized by new literary works, exciting announcements for 2025, significant anniversaries, and a plethora of adaptations of his writings. With an extensive bibliography exceeding sixty novels and countless short stories, King has captivated generations by exploring human fears through both supernatural and realistic narratives. His illustrious career in horror literature began in 1974 with the release of Carrie, although the first manuscript he penned was The Long Walk, which was not published until 1979.
Since Carrie, King has been a prolific author, consistently releasing novels and short story collections, many of which have seen multiple adaptations in film and television. The events of 2024 were no different; fans were treated to fresh narratives, alongside announcements of anticipated adaptations of King’s written works. This year also marked several significant milestones in his storied career, setting the stage for an enticing 2025 for both the author and his audience.
10 Celebration of Carrie’s 50th Anniversary
The Book That Launched It All
Originally intended as a short story for the men’s magazine Cavalier, Carrie was King’s first published novel, debuting in 1974. He developed the storyline and characters, especially Carrie White, drawing inspiration from two girls he encountered in high school—one experiencing bullying due to economic hardship and the other raised in a strict religious household (as noted in King’s memoir On Writing).
Despite King’s initial skepticism regarding its potential, Carrie initially sold moderately and received positive reviews. Its acclaim skyrocketed following the release of Brian De Palma’s 1976 film adaptation, featuring Sissy Spacek in the titular role. The success spawned multiple adaptations, including a remake and theatrical productions.
9 Introduction of You Like It Darker Collection
Unveiling a Fresh Collection in 2024
In May 2024, Stephen King released a new short story collection titled You Like It Darker, featuring twelve new stories, some of which had previously appeared in various anthologies and periodicals. The announcement came in November 2023, along with a first look at the cover and titles of the stories, including the highlighted piece “Rattlesnakes.”
This collection debuted at the top of The New York Times fiction bestseller list at the end of May, garnering praise for its blend of fresh and familiar characters and settings, while exploring new themes of horror that fans expect from King. Critics pointed out that some narratives might benefit from further expansion, yet the concise format provides a tantalizing glimpse into King’s storytelling.
8 Sequel to Cujo Featured in You Like It Darker
An Unexpected Surprise in You Like It Darker
Stephen King is not commonly known for penning sequels, yet he surprised his readers with a short novella titled Rattlesnakes, a sequel to Cujo, included in You Like It Darker. The narrative revisits Vic Trenton, years after the heartwrenching events of Cujo, where he lost his son, Tad, to dehydration while seeking refuge from a rabid dog.
After the tragic passing of Vic’s new partner, Alita, he finds himself haunted by the spirits of her deceased twin sons and confronting suspicions of foul play. Critics hailed Rattlesnakes as “gut-wrenching” and a powerful representation of grief, solidifying it as a classic King narrative.
7 Return to Mid-World & The Territories Teased
Exploration of One of King’s Most Famous Realms
The Dark Tower series, arguably one of Stephen King’s most beloved works, follows the adventures of Roland, the lone gunslinger, through a blend of Western and fantasy elements. After concluding the main series in 2004, King hinted at revisiting parts of this universe in 2024.
Via his now-deleted social media post, King expressed excitement about returning to the realms of Mid-World and the Territories, though he remains uncertain whether these ideas will evolve into a full project. Fans are eager to see what revelations 2025 may hold regarding this return.
6 Salem’s Lot Movie Premieres on Max
Directed by Gary Dauberman
The highly-anticipated adaptation of Salem’s Lot made its debut on Max in 2024, directed by Gary Dauberman. This retelling honors the original 1975 novel while following writer Ben Mears as he returns to his hometown, only to uncover a frightening truth about a vampire terrorizing the residents.
Despite its long journey through production delays, initial reviews have not been overwhelmingly positive, with critics noting a lack of the depth present in King’s classic work. Yet, the film has been praised for its thrilling visuals and effective horror elements.
5 The Stand Anthology: The End Of The World As We Know It Announced
A Groundbreaking Contribution to The Stand Universe
In a surprising announcement for 2024, King unveiled The End of the World as We Know It: Tales of Stephen King’s The Stand, a comprehensive anthology featuring contributions from various authors within the universe of his acclaimed 1978 novel. This collection will mark a historic moment, as it is the first instance where other writers will expand on King’s established lore.
Featuring authors like C. Robert Cargill and Wayne Brady, this collection explores the post-apocalyptic landscape defined by the struggle between good and evil factions following a devastating pandemic. Scheduled for an August 2025 release, The End of the World as We Know It is available for pre-order now.
4 Upcoming Novel: Never Flinch Announced for 2025
What Can We Expect From King in 2025?
On top of the anthology announcement, Stephen King is gearing up to release a new crime novel entitled Never Flinch, scheduled for May 27, 2025. Centered around Holly Gibney, a character familiar to readers from King’s crime novels, this narrative intertwines two separate storylines where Gibney plays a pivotal role in linking them together.
One storyline features Detective Izzy Jaynes addressing a letter threatening the lives of innocents, while the second follows activist Kate McKay as she encounters harassment from a dangerous stalker. Anticipation for Never Flinch is building, especially following its announcement on November 18, 2024.
3 You Like It Darker Claims the Title of Best Horror Book in 2024
The Award-Winning Collection
You Like It Darker emerged as a phenomenal success for Stephen King, winning the coveted Goodreads Choice Award for Best Horror Book of 2024. Garnering a remarkable total of 60,901 votes, it triumphed over other notable works in the horror genre.
This honor marked King’s 11th career win across various Goodreads categories, emphasizing his enduring appeal and mastery of the horror craft. The collection, rich in fresh narratives and surprise sequels, underscores King’s signature storytelling style that resonates deeply with readers.
2 The Long Walk Movie Adaptation Finally Gains Momentum
Progress for The Long Walk Film Adaptation
After enduring a prolonged period in development hell, the film adaptation of King’s The Long Walk is finally underway. Initially announced in 2018, the project saw various directors come and go, with Francis Lawrence now at the helm.
Production commenced in July 2024, and by September, filming wrapped. While a release date remains unspecified, fans hope for news in 2025 that will clarify the film’s future.
1 Bill Skarsgård to Reprise Pennywise in Welcome to Derry
Pennywise’s Return in the Upcoming Prequel Series
The world of Stephen King is set to expand with the upcoming prequel series, Welcome to Derry, which aims to elaborate on the lore surrounding Pennywise, the iconic antagonist of King’s universe. Set in the 1960s, this series promises to delve deeper into the character’s origins and the horror that enveloped Derry, Maine.
Fans can rest easy as it has been confirmed in May 2024 that Bill Skarsgård will reprise his role as Pennywise, also serving as an executive producer. Scheduled for release in 2025, Welcome to Derry is poised to provide a thrilling exploration of one of King’s most notorious characters.
Sources: On Writing: A Memoir Of The Craft, EW, Goodreads.