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American Horror Story

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American Horror Story
Company typeTelevision series
IndustryEntertainment
Founded2011
FounderRyan Murphy, Brad Falchuk
Headquarters
United States
ProductsTelevision series
Websitewww.fxnetworks.com/shows/american-horror-story

American Horror Story (commonly abbreviated as AHS) is a U.S.-based horror anthology television production developed by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk for the FX cable channel. Serving as the inaugural entry in the American Story media franchise, each season functions as an independent miniseries, presenting distinct characters and narratives within a shared fictional realm, occasionally incorporating crossover elements and connections to the spin-off series American Horror Stories. Some installments are inspired, albeit loosely, by real-life occurrences.

A number of performers appear repeatedly across different seasons, frequently portraying new characters. Leading with nine appearances each are Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, and Lily Rabe; followed by Frances Conroy and Denis O'Hare with eight; Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, and Leslie Grossman with six; while prominent actors such as Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, and Angela Bassett have been featured in five seasons.

The thematic focus of seasons includes: a haunted family residence in Murder House; a mental institution setting in Asylum; witchcraft themes in Coven; a sideshow ensemble in Freak Show; a supernatural hotel environment in Hotel; a haunted rural home in Roanoke; a cult emerging post-2016 election in Cult; an apocalyptic crossover scenario in Apocalypse; the reopening of a summer camp in 1984; narratives involving alien conspiracies and local residents in Double Feature; 1980s New York City murders coupled with a viral outbreak in NYC; and an actress caught in a dark scheme during attempts at pregnancy in Delicate. As of January 2020, FX extended the show's run through its thirteenth season.

From a critical standpoint, American Horror Story has generally received favorable reviews, especially highlighting its ensemble cast. Jessica Lange has been honored with two Emmy Awards, along with a Golden Globe Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Additional distinctions include Emmy Awards awarded to James Cromwell and Kathy Bates, plus a Golden Globe accolade for Lady Gaga. The series consistently achieves high viewership ratings on FX, with its premiere season ranking as the most-watched new cable series of 2011.

Debuted in Murder House

Debuted in Asylum

Debuted in Coven

Debuted in Freak Show

  • Sarah Paulson in dual roles as Bette and Dot Tattler
  • Evan Peters as Jimmy Darling
  • Michael Chiklis cast as Wendell 'Dell' Toledo
  • Frances Conroy playing Gloria Mott
  • Denis O'Hare as Stanislaus 'Stanley' Spencer
  • Emma Roberts portraying Maggie Esmerelda
  • Finn Wittrock in the role of Dandy Mott
  • Angela Bassett as Desiree Dupree
  • Kathy Bates playing Ethel Darling
  • Jessica Lange as Elsa Mars

Debuted in Hotel

  • Kathy Bates in the role of Iris Holloway
  • Sarah Paulson portraying Sally McKenna
  • Evan Peters as James Patrick March
  • Wes Bentley cast as Detective John Lowe
  • Matt Bomer playing Donovan Holloway
  • Chloë Sevigny as Dr. Alex Lowe
  • Denis O'Hare portraying Liz Taylor
  • Cheyenne Jackson in the role of Will Drake
  • Angela Bassett as Ramona Royale
  • Lady Gaga playing Elizabeth Johnson

Debuted in Roanoke

  • Kathy Bates cast as Agnes Mary Winstead
  • Sarah Paulson portraying Audrey Tindall
  • Cuba Gooding Jr. as Dominic Banks
  • Lily Rabe playing Shelby Miller
  • André Holland in the role of Matt Miller
  • Denis O'Hare portraying William van Henderson
  • Wes Bentley cast as Dylan Conrad
  • Evan Peters playing Rory Monahan
  • Cheyenne Jackson as Sidney Aaron James
  • Angela Bassett in the role of Monet Tumusiime

Debuted in Cult

  • Sarah Paulson portraying Ally Mayfair-Richards
  • Evan Peters in the role of Kai Anderson
  • Billie Lourd playing Winter Anderson
  • Cheyenne Jackson cast as Dr. Vincent Anderson
  • Alison Pill portraying Ivy Mayfair-Richards

Debuted in Apocalypse

  • Sarah Paulson appearing as
    • Ms. Wilhemina Venable
    • Cordelia Goode
  • Evan Peters portraying
    • Malcolm Gallant
    • Jeff Pfister
  • Adina Porter cast as Dinah Stevens
  • Billie Lourd playing Mallory
  • Leslie Grossman in the role of Coco St. Pierre Vanderbilt
  • Cody Fern portraying Michael Langdon
  • Emma Roberts reprising Madison Montgomery
  • Cheyenne Jackson cast as John Henry Moore
  • Kathy Bates appearing as Ms. Miriam Mead

Debuted in 1984

Debuted in Double Feature

Debuted in NYC

  • Russell Tovey portraying Detective Patrick Read
  • Joe Mantello as Gino Barelli
  • Billie Lourd in the role of Dr. Hannah Wells
  • Denis O'Hare playing Henry Grant
  • Charlie Carver as Adam Carpenter
  • Leslie Grossman cast as Barbara Read
  • Sandra Bernhard appearing as Fran Levinsky
  • Isaac Powell as Theo Graves
  • Zachary Quinto in the role of Sam Jones
  • Patti LuPone portraying Kathy Pizazz

Debuted in Delicate

Debuted in Season 13

Murder House (2011)

Set during 2011, this installment follows the Harmon family—Vivien (Connie Britton), her husband Ben, a psychiatrist (Dylan McDermott), and their daughter Violet (Taissa Farmiga)—as they move from Boston to Los Angeles following Vivien’s miscarriage. Tensions rise due to Ben’s affair with a student prior to their relocation into a renovated mansion. Upon settling, they meet the housekeeper Moira O'Hara (Frances Conroy, Alexandra Breckenridge) along with neighbors Constance (Jessica Lange) and her daughter Adelaide (Jamie Brewer). The Harmons face challenges from the Langdons, real estate agent Marcy (Christine Estabrook), disfigured former tenant Larry Harvey (Denis O'Hare), and Ben’s former student Hayden McClaine (Kate Mara). Violet, struggling with depression, forms a connection with Tate (Evan Peters), one of Ben’s patients. The family uncovers that the mansion is haunted by its previous occupants, including founders Charles (Matt Ross) and Nora Montgomery (Lily Rabe) and their deformed son Thaddeus (Ben Woolf). Flashbacks explore the home's history dating back to its construction in the 1920s.

Asylum (2012–2013)

Taking place in 1964, this season revolves around Briarcliff Manor, a mental institution managed by the church in Massachusetts for criminally insane patients. Kit Walker (Evan Peters) is imprisoned there after being accused of the serial murders committed by "Bloody Face," following his wife Alma's disappearance (Britne Oldford), though he insists he was abducted by aliens. Ambitious reporter Lana Winters (Sarah Paulson) aims to uncover a major story within the asylum. Kit interacts with other inmates, many asserting they were wrongly institutionalized, including microcephalic Pepper (Naomi Grossman), nymphomaniac Shelley (Chloë Sevigny), and French patient Grace Bertrand (Lizzie Brocheré). The facility is overseen by Sister Jude (Jessica Lange), her assistant Sister Mary Eunice (Lily Rabe), and founder Monsignor Timothy Howard (Joseph Fiennes). Psychiatrist Dr. Oliver Thredson (Zachary Quinto) and cruel Dr. Arthur Arden (James Cromwell) play significant roles, with Arden conducting unethical medical experiments. The asylum encounters both supernatural occurrences such as demonic possession and scientific phenomena like alien abduction.

Coven (2013–2014)

Taking place in 2013, this installment follows the last surviving descendants of Salem witches as they face threats from rival supernatural factions, including voodoo practitioners. Zoe Benson (Taissa Farmiga), unaware of her magical lineage until a tragic accident claims her boyfriend’s life, is enrolled at a New Orleans academy dedicated to protecting and training young witches. There, she encounters fellow students such as the self-absorbed film actress Madison Montgomery (Emma Roberts), outspoken voodoo doll Queenie (Gabourey Sidibe), and telepathic Nan (Jamie Brewer). Zoe also becomes involved with college student Kyle Spencer (Evan Peters). The school is overseen by headmistress Cordelia Foxx (Sarah Paulson), the Witches Council leader Myrtle Snow (Frances Conroy), and their silent butler Spalding (Denis O'Hare). Fiona Goode (Jessica Lange), the powerful yet neglectful Supreme witch and Cordelia’s mother, returns to lead the coven after a young witch’s death ignites a fierce battle over who will succeed her.

Freak Show (2014–2015)

Set in 1952 Jupiter, Florida, this season focuses on a declining freak show managed by Elsa Mars (Jessica Lange), who dreams of bringing fame and fortune to her "monsters." Central figures include "Lobster Boy" Jimmy Darling (Evan Peters), who yearns for a normal life, and his mother Ethel (Kathy Bates), a bearded lady who maintains order under the big top. The arrival of strongman Dell Toledo (Michael Chiklis) and his three-breasted wife Desiree Dupree (Angela Bassett) adds tension to the troupe. Elsa revitalizes the show by recruiting conjoined twins Bette and Dot Tattler (Sarah Paulson). As television begins to overshadow traditional sideshows, the performers face increasing hostility and sinister dangers in Jupiter. A con artist named Stanley (Denis O'Hare) arrives with his protégé Maggie Esmerelda (Emma Roberts), while wealthy socialite Dandy Mott (Finn Wittrock) obsessively targets the freaks. The season also features Twisty (John Carroll Lynch), a terrifying clown whose presence wreaks havoc across town.

Hotel (2015–2016)

Set in 2015 Los Angeles, this season delves into chilling occurrences at the Hotel Cortez, originally constructed by James Patrick March (Evan Peters) as a concealed torture chamber. Detective John Lowe (Wes Bentley) investigates a series of murders connected to breaches of the Ten Commandments while coping with estrangement from his family following his son’s disappearance. The hotel is controlled by March’s vampiric widow Elizabeth Johnson (Lady Gaga), known as the Countess, alongside her lover Donovan (Matt Bomer). John’s inquiry draws him into interactions with hotel spirits such as Sally McKenna, a heroin addict (Sarah Paulson), maid Hazel Evers (Mare Winningham), and March himself, who seeks an apprentice. Staff members Iris (Kathy Bates) and transgender bartender Liz Taylor (Denis O'Hare) navigate complex loyalties amid ongoing violence. Elizabeth’s troubled relationships involve model and addict Tristan Duffy, fashion designer Will Drake (Cheyenne Jackson), and former lover Ramona Royale (Angela Bassett).

Roanoke (2016)

Taking place from 2014 to 2016, this installment revolves around eerie occurrences within a restored farmhouse in North Carolina, situated on territory linked to the historic Roanoke Colony. In 2015, Shelby Miller (Lily Rabe), along with her husband Matt (André Holland) and Matt's sister Lee Harris (Adina Porter), recount their terrifying experiences in a documentary titled My Roanoke Nightmare. The narrative delves into confrontations with vengeful spirits, the nearby cannibalistic Polk family, and the enigmatic immortal witch Scathach (Lady Gaga). Due to the documentary’s popularity, a follow-up called Return to Roanoke: Three Days in Hell is produced in 2016 by Sidney Aaron James (Cheyenne Jackson), who invites both the original family and reenactors to spend three days at the farmhouse during a blood moon. As tensions escalate, the production spirals into disorder, with malevolent forces emerging and transforming the event into a deadly battle for survival.

Cult (2017)

Set against the backdrop of 2016–2017 in Brookfield Heights, Michigan, this season investigates the societal rifts following Donald Trump’s election. Ally Mayfair-Richards (Sarah Paulson), a local restaurant proprietor, experiences growing instability as her suppressed fears resurface, placing strain on her marriage to Ivy (Alison Pill) and their child. Psychiatrist Dr. Rudy Vincent (Cheyenne Jackson) works to support her during this turmoil. Meanwhile, Kai Anderson (Evan Peters), an alt-right activist, exploits the political climate to run for city council with backing from radical feminist Bebe Babbitt (Frances Conroy) and his liberal sister Winter (Billie Lourd), who serves as the Mayfair-Richards’ nanny. Ally faces harassment by masked figures dressed as clowns, blurring the lines between reality and paranoia. The season also highlights neighbors Harrison (Billy Eichner) and Meadow Wilton (Leslie Grossman), crime journalist Beverly Hope (Adina Porter), detective Jack Samuels (Colton Haynes), and grocery owner Gary K. Longstreet (Chaz Bono). As Kai’s power expands, Ally uncovers dark links behind the attacks and mounting violence throughout the town.

Apocalypse (2018)

Set in an imminent future, this season follows Michael Langdon (Cody Fern), the Antichrist, who instigates nuclear devastation that leads to an apocalypse. Survivors such as heiress Coco St. Pierre Vanderbilt (Leslie Grossman), her assistant Mallory (Billie Lourd), hairstylist Mr. Gallant (Evan Peters), among others, find shelter in "Outpost 3," a fallout refuge governed by Wilhemina Venable (Sarah Paulson), Miriam Mead (Kathy Bates), and The Fist (Erika Ervin). Flashbacks reveal that "Outpost 3" was formerly an all-boys warlock academy directed by John Henry Moore (Cheyenne Jackson) that unknowingly housed Michael, destined to be the first male Supreme. The witches’ council—Cordelia Goode (Sarah Paulson), Zoe Benson (Taissa Farmiga), and the revived Myrtle Snow (Frances Conroy)—face Michael’s rising powers as he resurrects witches Queenie, Madison, and Misty. Together with warlocks, they aim to cultivate new witch Mallory’s potential and investigate Michael’s lineage through his birth mother Vivien Harmon (Connie Britton) and grandmother Constance Langdon (Jessica Lange) in hopes of averting total destruction.

1984 (2019)

Taking place in the year 1984, this season centers on Brooke Thompson (Emma Roberts), who begins her role as a counselor at Camp Redwood, a secluded summer camp reopening after many years. Alongside her are fellow counselors Xavier Plympton (Cody Fern), Chet Clancy (Gus Kenworthy), Ray Powell (DeRon Horton), and Montana Duke (Billie Lourd). The camp is owned by Margaret Booth (Leslie Grossman), a former camper harboring a sinister history. The staff also includes nurse Rita (Angelica Ross), activities director Trevor Kirchner (Matthew Morrison), and chef Bertie (Tara Karsian). Shortly after their arrival, it becomes known that Benjamin Richter, also known as Mr. Jingles (John Carroll Lynch), an escaped murderer, is en route to the camp. As the story progresses, hidden truths about the counselors emerge alongside flashbacks that expose the camp’s violent past, including details about Richter’s abusive mother Lavinia (Lily Rabe).

Double Feature (2021)

The first segment, Red Tide, follows Harry Gardner (Finn Wittrock), a writer struggling with creativity, his pregnant wife Doris (Lily Rabe), and their daughter Alma (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) as they spend the winter in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Harry’s writer’s block persists until he encounters singer Austin Sommers (Evan Peters) and erotic author Sarah Cunningham (Belle Noir, Frances Conroy) at a local bar. Austin provides Harry with a mysterious black pill that boosts his creativity but brings severe adverse effects. The town itself is haunted by unsettling "pale people" and various strange inhabitants, including Harry’s agent Ursula Khan (Leslie Grossman), tattoo artist Lark Feldman (Billie Lourd), and police chief Burleson (Adina Porter).

The second part, Death Valley, focuses on college students Kendall Carr (Kaia Gerber), Cal Cambon (Nico Greetham), Troy Lord (Isaac Cole Powell), and Jamie Howard (Rachel Hilson) as they uncover a lethal extraterrestrial conspiracy. President Dwight D. Eisenhower (Neal McDonough) grapples with a grave responsibility involving alien visitors, while his wife Mamie (Sarah Paulson) undertakes a dangerous course of action without his knowledge.

NYC (2022)

Set against the backdrop of 1981 New York City, this season delves into a series of murders targeting the gay community amid indifference from the NYPD. Detective Patrick Read (Russell Tovey) teams up with journalist Gino Barelli (Joe Mantello) to investigate a pair of killers known as "Big Daddy" and Mr. Gideon Whitely (Jeff Hiller), all while managing friction within their partnership. Adam Carpenter (Charlie Carver) searches for a missing friend and forms a connection with photographer Theo Graves (Isaac Cole Powell), provoking jealousy from Theo’s partner Sam Jones (Zachary Quinto). Concurrently, Dr. Hannah Wells (Billie Lourd) investigates an emerging disease spreading from Fire Island, while cabaret performer Kathy Pizzaz (Patti LuPone) struggles with dwindling attendance at her bathhouse venue.

Delicate (2023–2024)

Based on Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition, this season represents the franchise’s first adaptation derived from literary source material rather than an original screenplay. It follows Anna Victoria Alcott (Emma Roberts), a top-tier actress residing in New York City, who is trying to conceive with her husband Dexter 'Dex' Harding Jr. (Matt Czuchry). Despite cautions from her PR manager Siobhan Corbyn (Kim Kardashian) about jeopardizing her career during award season, Anna proceeds with IVF treatments under Dr. Andrew Hill (Denis O'Hare). She soon begins experiencing unsettling visions and suspects someone is undermining her pregnancy. After receiving threats from various women—including Ms. Mavis Preecher (Julie White), Ivy Ehrenreich (Cara Delevingne), and superfan Susan Pratt (Ashlie Atkinson)—Anna and Dex move to The Hamptons, residing in a home owned by Dex’s business associate Talia Thompson (Juliana Canfield). Talia hires bodyguard Kamal (Maaz Ali) and employs manager Nicolette (Michaela Jaé Rodriguez). Meanwhile, Dex and Talia’s new project involving artist Sonia Shawcross (Annabelle Dexter-Jones), who bears resemblance to Dex’s deceased ex-wife Adeline Harding, adds further complications to Anna’s situation.

Thirteenth Season Ahead

On December 5, 2018, series creator Ryan Murphy announced that the witches from Coven would make a comeback in an upcoming season. The show received renewal through its thirteenth installment on January 9, 2020. By October 2024, Murphy revealed that discussions were underway for Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters to reprise their roles in season 13, with Paulson’s participation officially confirmed via Instagram in June 2025. The main cast lineup for the thirteenth season was unveiled on October 31, 2025, featuring Peters, Paulson, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Leslie Grossman, Jessica Lange, Gabourey Sidibe, and newcomer Ariana Grande.

Development

Before beginning production on their Fox series Glee, creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk started developing American Horror Story. Murphy sought a creative shift from his prior projects, explaining: "After working on Nip/Tuck and then Glee, I wanted to challenge myself with something darker... Horror has always been a passion of mine, as it was for Brad." Falchuk highlighted their intention to unsettle the audience: "Our aim was to leave viewers feeling slightly off-kilter."

In February 2011, FX commissioned a pilot episode penned by Murphy and Falchuk, with Murphy directing and Dante Di Loreto serving as executive producer. Filming began in April 2011, and by July of that year, FX had approved the series for a full season.

From the outset, Murphy and Falchuk structured each season as an independent narrative featuring new characters and settings. After the first season concluded, Murphy confirmed plans to change both the cast and location for season two, although some performers would return portraying different characters. FX CEO John Landgraf later lauded this anthology approach as both "innovative" and "trendsetting."

At the 2013 PaleyFest, Falchuk likened the series to horror cinema but noted that television requires deeper character exploration due to viewers’ emotional investment. Murphy elaborated that crafting a season takes roughly a year, beginning with story development followed by casting within their repertory ensemble model.

By 2015, Murphy disclosed that the production schedule involved two seasons per year—one premiering late in the calendar year and another early the following year—with separate writing teams developing distinct atmospheres. He described forthcoming seasons as embracing a "darker" and more "rebellious" tone compared to earlier lavish productions.

Casting

Connie Britton was initially cast as Vivien Harmon in Murder House. Joining soon after were Denis O'Hare as Larry Harvey and Jessica Lange in her first regular television role as Constance. Dylan McDermott was selected to play Ben Harmon, while Taissa Farmiga and Evan Peters completed the main ensemble as Violet Harmon and Tate Langdon respectively.

Season two centered around Jessica Lange’s character Sister Jude and featured returning actors including Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, Lily Rabe, and Zachary Quinto. Peters portrayed Kit Walker; Paulson took on Lana Winters; Rabe played Sister Mary Eunice; and Quinto appeared as Dr. Thredson. New cast members included Lizzie Brocheré, James Cromwell, and Joseph Fiennes.

The third installment brought back many familiar faces in fresh roles led by Jessica Lange as Fiona Goode. Evan Peters returned as Kyle Spencer; Sarah Paulson assumed Cordelia Goode; Taissa Farmiga starred as Zoe Benson; Lily Rabe portrayed Misty Day; Frances Conroy joined as Myrtle Snow; Oscar-winning actress Kathy Bates was cast as Madame Delphine LaLaurie; Emma Roberts appeared as Madison Montgomery; and Denis O'Hare returned as Spalding.

In season four, Jessica Lange took on Elsa Mars, owner of a freak show. Kathy Bates reprised her role as Ethel Darling. Returning cast included Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Frances Conroy, Emma Roberts, Denis O'Hare, and Angela Bassett. Michael Chiklis joined portraying Dell Toledo; Finn Wittrock played Dandy Mott.

Season five introduced singer-songwriter Lady Gaga in the role of Elizabeth Johnson ("the Countess"), alongside Matt Bomer and Cheyenne Jackson. Chloë Sevigny and Wes Bentley were elevated to main cast status. Returning actors included Bates, Paulson, Peters, Bassett, and O'Hare. Central characters encompassed a glamorous vampire fashionista, an ambitious designer facing desperation, a transgender bartender, as well as serial killers inhabiting the Hotel Cortez setting.

For the sixth season, Angela Bassett confirmed her return while Denis O'Hare also rejoined the ensemble. The main cast featured Cheyenne Jackson, Evan Peters, Wes Bentley, Kathy Bates, Sarah Paulson (reprising Lana Winters from Asylum), Cuba Gooding Jr., André Holland, and Lily Rabe.

Season seven saw Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters return; Billie Lourd joined the principal cast; Cheyenne Jackson reprised his role; Alison Pill co-starred.

In season eight, Paulson and Peters returned along with Kathy Bates and Angela Bassett. Adina Porter was promoted to main cast status. Billie Lourd and Emma Roberts reprised earlier roles; Cody Fern was introduced as the adult Michael Langdon.

The ninth season featured Emma Roberts returning with newcomer Gus Kenworthy joining; Angelica Ross appeared; Cody Fern, Leslie Grossman, Billie Lourd returned; John Carroll Lynch was elevated to main cast; newcomers Zach Villa and Matthew Morrison were added.

For season ten, Sarah Paulson resumed a leading role after missing season nine. Returning actors included Kathy Bates, Evan Peters, Lily Rabe, Finn Wittrock, Adina Porter, Leslie Grossman, Billie Lourd, Angelica Ross; Macaulay Culkin joined the cast.

In August 2022, Paulson expressed uncertainty about future involvement.

Season twelve incorporated Matt Czuchry following the cancellation of The Resident. Ryan Murphy confirmed Kim Kardashian would headline alongside Emma Roberts. Cara Delevingne joined after filming scenes with Roberts; Annabelle Dexter-Jones and MJ Rodriguez also became part of the cast.

For the thirteenth season (2025), returning performers include Paulson, Peters, Bassett, Bates, Roberts, Lourd, Grossman, Lange alongside Gabourey Sidibe and new addition Ariana Grande.

Filming

The initial season's production commenced on July 27, 2011. The pilot episode was filmed at the Rosenheim Mansion in Los Angeles, a Tudor and Collegiate Gothic architectural residence constructed in 1908 by Alfred Rosenheim, who once served as president of the American Institute of Architects' Los Angeles chapter. The remainder of the season was shot on meticulously crafted sets designed to replicate the mansion, including faithful reproductions of Tiffany stained glass windows and bronze hardware.

For the second season, filming began in late July 2012. Although the narrative takes place in Massachusetts, exterior scenes were captured in Hidden Valley, Ventura County, California.

Principal photography for season three started on July 23, 2013, primarily located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Despite initial reports suggesting multiple filming sites, production was predominantly based there.

The fourth season's shoot kicked off on July 15, 2014, also in New Orleans, while the storyline was set in Jupiter, Florida.

Season five filming began on July 14, 2015, in Los Angeles, which is also the setting for that season’s plot. Ryan Murphy disclosed that a six-story Art Deco hotel set inspired by Hollywood’s 1920s era was constructed on the Fox studio lot and later displayed at San Diego Comic-Con.

Filming for the sixth season started on July 6, 2016, in Santa Clarita, California. Among the sets was a colonial settler house connected to the Roanoke Colony storyline.

Season seven's production was scheduled for Orange, California, initially planned for June 2017 but advanced to May.

The eighth season began filming on June 16, 2018, across several locations.

On July 11, 2019, Murphy confirmed that shooting for season nine had commenced.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, production of season ten was postponed from March to December 2020. Filming concluded on September 27, 2021.

Season twelve started filming on April 24, 2023. Production faced temporary interruptions because of the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike but quickly resumed with cast and crew accessing alternative studio facilities to avoid crossing picket lines. Filming paused again on May 10 but was ultimately completed by late October.

Promotion

FX executed a "House Call" marketing campaign allowing fans to meet a character from the series face-to-face. Prior to the premiere, ten clues were released through FX’s official YouTube channel to build anticipation. In September 2011, a dedicated website launched where users could explore the Murder House and uncover hidden clues.

For season two’s promotion, a teaser titled "Special Delivery" premiered on the American Horror Story Facebook page in August 2012. It featured a nun carrying buckets filled with body parts. More than twenty additional teasers were released alongside four photos published on EW.com. Two television promos named "Meet the Residents" introduced various patients and staff members with a soundtrack blending Que Sera, Sera and the show’s theme music.

To support Cult, a charitable contest invited fans to win a walk-on role and lunch with Evan Peters by donating to Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

Season storylines and characters are typically kept under wraps until shortly before launch dates and are hinted at through brief trailers.

In October 2020, owners of the Alfred Rosenheim Mansion—familiarly known as "The Murder House" from season one—organized a virtual paranormal investigation event. This included live feeds from fifteen cameras inside the home and featured guests such as psychic Patti Negri, exorcist Bishop James Long, Michelle Belanger, among others.

Universal's Halloween Horror Nights

On August 16, 2016, FX revealed a partnership to introduce an American Horror Story maze at both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando during their annual Halloween Horror Nights celebrations. This maze incorporated elements from Murder House, Freak Show, and Hotel. According to Universal Parks & Resorts, visitors would face eerie scenes from Murder House, become part of a sinister sideshow in Freak Show, and fall under the dark influence of the Countess within the haunted Hotel Cortez. The franchise returned in 2017, with Universal Orlando presenting mazes themed around Asylum, Coven, and Roanoke, while Universal Studios Hollywood centered its attraction on Roanoke.

In December 2017, The Walt Disney Company announced its acquisition of 21st Century Fox, which included film and television properties under 20th Century Fox. The transaction was completed on March 20, 2019, incorporating 20th Century Fox into The Walt Disney Studios. Given the competitive dynamic between Disney and Universal in the theme park industry—particularly in Central Florida—this acquisition effectively ended the franchise's involvement with Universal's Halloween Horror Nights.

The Night Bites Bakery

On July 14, 2021, a bakery inspired by American Horror Story debuted in New York City's Meatpacking District to commemorate the spin-off series American Horror Stories and the tenth season titled Double Feature. Visitors aged 18 and over could book 30-minute time slots. The bakery featured desserts creatively themed around the show, showcasing distinctive designs and characters from previous seasons. Orders were discreetly delivered via a secret window by the Rubber Woman character from American Horror Stories. Subsequently, the bakery operated in Los Angeles' Beverly Grove neighborhood from August 4 to 14, 2021, and later appeared in Provincetown, Massachusetts—the filming location for part of season ten—at Pat's Happy Park from September 1 to 4, 2021.

Critical response

The inaugural season, American Horror Story: Murder House, was met with generally favorable critiques. Rotten Tomatoes reported a 72% approval rating based on 147 reviews, summarizing it as "strange, gory, and twisted enough to keep viewers hooked." On Metacritic, it earned a score of 62 out of 100 from 30 critics. Reviewers praised its intense scares and stylistic approach, although some considered it excessive or campy.

The second installment, American Horror Story: Asylum, garnered widespread critical acclaim with an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 220 reviews and a Metacritic score of 65. It was lauded for its focused narrative, compelling performances, and innovative exploration of social issues despite some critiques about depth.

Season three, American Horror Story: Coven, received positive feedback with an 85% Rotten Tomatoes score (221 reviews) and a Metacritic rating of 71. The ensemble cast and storytelling were highlighted favorably, though certain critics pointed out inconsistent character development as the season progressed.

The fourth season, American Horror Story: Freak Show, achieved mostly positive reviews with a 77% Rotten Tomatoes rating from 202 critics and marked Jessica Lange’s final prominent role within the series.

The fifth season, American Horror Story: Hotel, experienced mixed critical reception with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 64% (215 reviews) and a Metacritic rating of 60. Although its horror elements and experimental nature were praised, many reviewers felt that Jessica Lange’s departure negatively impacted both quality and viewership.

The sixth season, American Horror Story: Roanoke, was generally well-received with a Rotten Tomatoes approval of 74% (160 critics) and became the highest-rated season on Metacritic at 72.

Season seven, American Horror Story: Cult, earned generally favorable reviews—73% on Rotten Tomatoes (218 critics) alongside a Metacritic score of 66—although some noted issues related to political generalizations and narrative coherence.

The eighth installment, American Horror Story: Apocalypse, received positive responses with a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 79% (193 critics) and a Metacritic score of 63. It was regarded as an ambitious crossover that reinvigorated the series.

The ninth season, American Horror Story: 1984, achieved critical praise with an 88% approval on Rotten Tomatoes based on 170 reviews. Critics commended its fusion of slasher genre conventions with the franchise’s signature twists.

Season ten, American Horror Story: Double Feature, garnered overall positive feedback. Rotten Tomatoes reported an approval rating of 80% from 61 critics. The first half was especially praised for strong performances and originality; however, the latter half received more mixed reactions. Reviewers noted enhanced writing quality and production values as indicators of the series returning to form.

The eleventh season, American Horror Story: NYC, attracted mostly positive critiques with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 71% from seven reviewers.

The twelfth season, American Horror Story: Delicate, holds a Rotten Tomatoes approval rate of 77% (13 reviews) alongside a Metacritic score indicating mixed or average reception at 51. It was recognized for refreshing the show's formula by adopting a slow-burn horror approach centered on pregnancy-related anxieties.

Creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk have been acknowledged for advancing LGBT representation among showrunners and narratives in television. Their serialized anthology format facilitates exploration of queer stories that challenge conventional gender roles and sexual identities. This method has been credited with fostering cultural dialogue surrounding queer visibility in media.

Ratings

The initial episode of American Horror Story drew an audience of 3.2 million viewers and secured a 1.6 rating within the crucial 18–49 age bracket, establishing FX's highest-rated series premiere at that point. Globally, it was viewed by 3.2 million people across 59 countries. Throughout the first season, ratings increased steadily, reaching a season finale audience of 3.22 million with a 1.7 rating among adults aged 18–49. Internationally, the show launched on Fox International Channels, frequently ranking either first or second in its time slot across the majority of pay-TV regions.

The show's second season opened to 3.85 million viewers and a 2.2 rating in the 18–49 demographic, marking the highest ratings the series had achieved at that time. Midseason viewership declined to a low point of 1.89 million with a 0.9 rating but later episodes saw a recovery above two million viewers, closing out with 2.29 million tuning in for the finale. The premiere of the fifth season attracted 6.13 million viewers, becoming FX’s second most-watched telecast, surpassed only by the preceding season’s debut.

In light of this achievement, FX CEO John Landgraf praised American Horror Story as the network’s top-rated series and a groundbreaking television program. A 2016 analysis by The New York Times highlighted the show's strong appeal in urban centers and southwestern regions, underscoring its widespread geographic popularity.

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Accolades

American Horror Story has achieved more than 100 wins out of 359 nominations. The franchise secured 28 Primetime Emmy Award nods, with victories awarded to Jessica Lange (Outstanding Supporting and Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie), James Cromwell (Outstanding Supporting Actor), and Kathy Bates (Outstanding Supporting Actress). Additionally, it earned 50 Creative Arts Emmy Award nominations, winning eleven honors including Outstanding Hairstyling, Costumes, Sound Editing, and Prosthetic Makeup.

The series was nominated nine times for Golden Globe Award accolades, with Lange receiving Best Supporting Actress and Lady Gaga winning Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Film. It obtained three Screen Actors Guild Award nominations, where Lange won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series. Other recognitions include eighteen Critics' Choice Television Award nominations with four wins, the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding TV Miniseries, four nominations from the Costume Designers Guild Awards resulting in three wins, eight awards from ten Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild nominations, five People's Choice Awards nominations with one victory, and eleven Satellite Awards nominations yielding three wins.

In April 2019, the Television Academy reclassified American Horror Story: Apocalypse from the Limited Series category to Drama for the Primetime Emmy Awards. According to Parrot Analytics' data, Guinness World Records named the series the most sought-after horror television show worldwide in 2018, 2019, and again in 2023. Furthermore, a Fandango poll conducted in September 2021 among over 2,500 fans placed it fourth among leading horror TV series.

American Crime Story

On October 7, 2014, FX commissioned a 10-episode companion show titled American Crime Story, created by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski. Unlike American Horror Story, which explores different horror themes each season, American Crime Story presents a new true crime narrative with every season. The cast features actors such as Sarah Paulson, Connie Britton, Cuba Gooding Jr., Darren Criss, Finn Wittrock, Max Greenfield, Jon Jon Briones, Cody Fern, and Billy Eichner. Its debut season aired in February 2016, followed by a second season in January 2018. The third installment, titled Impeachment, focused on the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal and premiered in September 2021. A prospective fourth season called Studio 54, highlighting the ascent and decline of Studio 54 proprietors Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager, is currently under development.

American Horror Stories

On May 11, 2020, Murphy unveiled plans for a spin-off series named American Horror Stories, which features standalone anthology episodes rather than extended seasonal storylines like American Horror Story. Initially slated for FX broadcast, it was subsequently shifted to stream on FX on Hulu. On August 4, 2020, it was announced that Sarah Paulson would direct episodes of the series.

The inaugural season included performers previously seen in American Horror Story, such as Matt Bomer, Gavin Creel, Sierra McCormick, and Paris Jackson among others within the first two-episode arc. Additional returning cast members like Naomi Grossman, John Carroll Lynch, Billie Lourd, and Gabourey Sidibe, alongside new talent, also appeared.

The first season premiered on July 15, 2021, comprising seven episodes. Its follow-up season featured eight episodes and debuted on July 21, 2022. In April 2023, a third season was approved with an expected premiere date of October 26, 2023.

External links

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