The highly anticipated American Horror Story: Delicate (Season 12) is slated to premiere on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX. Prepare for a chilling new chapter inspired by Danielle Valentine’s novel, “Delicate Condition,” promising a terrifying twist on motherhood and fame.
The Dawn of Delicate: Season 12’s Premiere
For years, the American Horror Story anthology has captivated audiences with its macabre tales and stellar performances. Season 12, officially titled American Horror Story: Delicate, promises to be no different, drawing inspiration from a contemporary source and featuring a compelling ensemble cast. The two-part season will launch with Part One on September 20th, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the conclusion later. This schedule represents a departure from previous seasons, marking a calculated move to build suspense and keep viewers hooked.
Behind the Premiere Date Choice
The decision to premiere in late September is likely strategic. Autumn is the ideal season for horror, with Halloween around the corner, audiences are more receptive to thrillers and scary content. FX has historically chosen fall release dates for American Horror Story to maximize viewership and cultural impact. This premiere date also allows for a strong lead-in to the Halloween season, which is a crucial period for streaming and cable networks. Furthermore, scheduling considerations related to other FX programming and the availability of key cast members likely played a role in finalizing the date.
Unpacking the Plot: What to Expect from “Delicate”
American Horror Story: Delicate is a modern adaptation of Danielle Valentine’s thriller, “Delicate Condition.” The storyline centers around actress Anna Alcott, played by Emma Roberts, who is desperately trying to conceive. As she undergoes IVF treatments, she becomes increasingly paranoid that someone – or something – is trying to prevent her pregnancy.
Motherhood, Fame, and the Supernatural
The season explores the complex themes of motherhood, the pressures of fame, and the intrusion of the supernatural into everyday life. The novel delves into the anxieties and vulnerabilities associated with fertility, particularly for women in the public eye. We can expect the series to amplify these themes, weaving in elements of suspense, psychological horror, and body horror that are hallmarks of the American Horror Story franchise. The promotional material released so far hints at a deeply unsettling atmosphere, featuring unsettling imagery and cryptic messages.
Meet the Cast: Familiar Faces and New Additions
American Horror Story is known for its recurring cast members, and Delicate doesn’t disappoint.
Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian Lead the Charge
Emma Roberts returns to the franchise, taking on the central role of Anna Alcott. This marks her significant return to AHS, exciting long-time fans of the series. Alongside her is Kim Kardashian, making her American Horror Story debut. Her casting initially sparked controversy, but the promotional material suggests she is delivering a compelling and nuanced performance.
Other Notable Cast Members
The season also features the return of Zachary Quinto, a fan favorite known for his memorable roles in previous seasons. Other notable cast members include Matt Czuchry, Billie Lourd, Denis O’Hare, Leslie Grossman, and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez. The presence of seasoned AHS actors ensures continuity with the show’s established tone and style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about American Horror Story: Delicate:
FAQ 1: Is this season based on a true story?
While American Horror Story: Delicate is inspired by Danielle Valentine’s novel, “Delicate Condition,” the story itself is fictional. The themes explored, however, touch on real-world anxieties about motherhood, fertility, and the pressures of fame.
FAQ 2: Will Sarah Paulson or Evan Peters be in this season?
Unfortunately, neither Sarah Paulson nor Evan Peters are confirmed to appear in American Horror Story: Delicate. While their absence is disappointing for some fans, the new cast promises a fresh dynamic.
FAQ 3: How many episodes will Season 12 have?
The precise number of episodes for each part of Season 12 is currently unknown, but typical American Horror Story seasons have ranged from 9 to 13 episodes. We can anticipate roughly half of these episodes being released in Part One.
FAQ 4: Where can I watch American Horror Story: Delicate?
American Horror Story: Delicate will premiere on FX and stream on Hulu the next day. You will need a valid FX cable subscription or a Hulu subscription to watch the episodes.
FAQ 5: What is the rating for American Horror Story: Delicate?
American Horror Story is typically rated TV-MA for mature audiences due to its graphic violence, gore, language, and sexual content. Expect Delicate to maintain this rating.
FAQ 6: Is Ryan Murphy involved in this season?
Ryan Murphy is an executive producer on American Horror Story: Delicate. Halley Feiffer serves as the showrunner and sole writer for the season.
FAQ 7: Will there be any crossovers with previous seasons?
While American Horror Story often includes subtle nods to previous seasons, there’s no indication of a direct crossover in Delicate. The focus appears to be on telling a self-contained story.
FAQ 8: What does “Delicate” refer to in the title?
“Delicate” refers both to the delicate condition of Anna Alcott’s pregnancy and the fragile state of her mental health. It also alludes to the delicate balance between reality and the supernatural.
FAQ 9: Are there any trailers available for Season 12?
Yes, multiple trailers and teasers have been released for American Horror Story: Delicate. These can be found on FX’s official website and YouTube channel, as well as various fan sites and social media platforms. The trailers offer glimpses into the season’s unsettling atmosphere and key plot points.
FAQ 10: Is the book “Delicate Condition” worth reading before watching the season?
Reading Danielle Valentine’s “Delicate Condition” can enhance your viewing experience, providing additional context and insight into the characters and storyline. However, it’s not essential, as the series is designed to be enjoyed independently.
FAQ 11: What other horror novels is Danielle Valentine known for?
Danielle Valentine is also known for her young adult horror novels, including “How to Survive Your Murder” and “The Merciless.” If you enjoy “Delicate Condition,” you might find her other works appealing.
FAQ 12: When will Part Two of Season 12 be released?
The release date for Part Two of American Horror Story: Delicate is currently unconfirmed. However, based on typical scheduling patterns, it’s likely to air sometime in early 2024. Official announcements regarding the Part Two premiere date are expected closer to the release.