A massive horror reunion is almost here, bringing familiar faces back for another round of nightmares. The new chapter will reconnect several fan-favorite performers with the characters they made famous, while Ryan Murphy promises a story that draws on the franchise’s entire history.
American Horror Story 13 returns next month with a three-episode premiere
FX will launch the 13th season of American Horror Story on September 24 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, with Hulu carrying the episodes. The opening week will deliver three episodes, followed by another three the next Thursday. After that, the schedule shifts to two installments per week before the 13th and final episode arrives on October 29 (via THR).
The cast reunion gives this season its biggest hook. Evan Peters returns and will tackle five characters, while Sarah Paulson takes on six or seven parts. Jessica Lange also comes back to portray four of her best-known figures, including Constance Langdon. Angela Bassett, Emma Roberts, Kathy Bates, Gabourey Sidibe, Billie Lourd, and Leslie Grossman also join the veteran-heavy lineup.
Murphy, speaking with ET, compared the ambitious crossover to “The Avengers,” explaining that the returning characters eventually unite against an “ultimate evil.” He also revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that the production reused costumes from earlier seasons, creating multiple “little easter eggs” for longtime viewers.
The series has plenty of history to mine. Since its 2011 debut with Murder House, American Horror Story has moved through witches, haunted hotels, cults, apocalyptic threats, and other twisted worlds. FX says the anthology has generated more than 700 million streaming hours worldwide. At the same time, its 13th season brings in newcomers such as Paul Anthony Kelly, Alex Consani, Avantika, Madelaine Petsch, John Waters, and Joey Pollari.
Ariana Grande will not appear after leaving because of a scheduling clash with her Eternal Sunshine tour. Murphy said he remains open to bringing her back later. I will always work with her. I love her, and I support her. It was a very big swing, but I might bring that back for another season, per Ariana’s availability,” Murphy said.
