It’s acceptable for people to feel “joy” because it is “part of the human experience”, Stephen King has said.

King, who is generally regarded as the most prolific horror writer of modern times, said joy should be regarded as a “valid exploration” for writers.

He made the comments as The Life of Chuck, a new film based on his 2020 novella, was released in cinemas. The drama film marks a rare departure from the horror genre for the writer.

King, whose works include visceral depictions of murder, mutilation and torture, told the Wall Street Journal he was “terrified of reviews that say, ‘This is corny’” but had “a strong belief that joy is also a valid exploration”.

He continued: “In the story, there are a lot of things that are very unpleasant, including a man’s decline from a brain tumour.

“But you have to understand moments of joy are also a part of the human experience.”