Yes, American Horror Stories (AHS Stories) is definitively related to American Horror Story (AHS). While distinct in format – AHS is an anthology series featuring a different overarching narrative each season, while AHS Stories is an anthology featuring different stories each episode (or two-part episodes) – they exist within the same Ryan Murphy-created universe, sharing thematic elements, returning actors in different roles, and occasionally, direct narrative connections. This creates a richer, more layered experience for dedicated fans of the franchise.
Unpacking the Shared Universe
At its core, both shows share the DNA of horror anthology. This means each season or episode introduces new characters, settings, and often, completely different subgenres of horror. From haunted houses and asylums to witch covens and creepy circuses, the American Horror Story umbrella explores the depths of fear in its myriad forms. American Horror Stories expands this scope, offering concentrated doses of terror in a shorter timeframe, allowing for even greater experimentation with themes and styles.
Recurring Actors: A Signature Trademark
One of the most recognizable connections between the two shows is the consistent use of the same actors in different roles. Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Lily Rabe, and Emma Roberts, to name just a few, have become synonymous with the American Horror Story brand. While their characters might be entirely unrelated across different seasons or episodes, their presence solidifies the sense of familiarity and continuity within the broader universe. This allows audiences to see actors showcase their range and provides opportunities for subtle callbacks and Easter eggs that reward attentive viewers.
Thematic Echoes: Familiar Terrors
Beyond the actors, both series delve into similar thematic territory. Family dysfunction, societal anxieties, the corrupting influence of power, and the inherent darkness of the human psyche are recurring motifs. Both shows frequently explore the consequences of unchecked ambition, the complexities of morality, and the blurring lines between sanity and madness. This thematic consistency, even across vastly different narratives, creates a cohesive atmosphere that ties the two series together.
Direct Narrative Links: When Stories Intersect
While AHS Stories largely tells self-contained stories, certain episodes feature direct narrative connections to established AHS lore. This is perhaps the most concrete evidence of their shared universe. For example, episodes within AHS Stories have revisited the Murder House (from AHS: Murder House) and the Coven (from AHS: Coven), offering deeper insights into those previously established locations and characters. These connections enrich the existing AHS canon and provide fans with satisfying answers to lingering questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the relationship between American Horror Stories and American Horror Story, providing deeper insight into their shared universe:
1. Do I need to watch American Horror Story to understand American Horror Stories?
While not strictly necessary, watching American Horror Story will significantly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of American Horror Stories. Episodes that feature direct narrative connections to past AHS seasons will be more meaningful if you’re familiar with the source material. Plus, understanding the established tone and themes of AHS will allow you to better appreciate the nuances of AHS Stories.
2. Are all episodes of American Horror Stories connected to American Horror Story?
No, the vast majority of AHS Stories episodes are self-contained and do not directly connect to any specific season of American Horror Story. These episodes explore new characters, settings, and themes independent of the established AHS universe. However, the overall tone and style remain consistent with the broader franchise.
3. Will characters from American Horror Story ever appear in American Horror Stories?
It’s certainly possible, and it has happened before! Some AHS Stories episodes have featured appearances from characters originally introduced in AHS, either as cameos or in more significant roles. This adds to the interconnectedness of the universe and provides opportunities for fan-favorite characters to return. The writers are clearly not opposed to such crossovers.
4. Is there a specific order in which I should watch American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
There is no required viewing order. You can watch AHS Stories independently of AHS. However, if you plan to watch both, it might be beneficial to watch the relevant seasons of AHS before watching AHS Stories episodes that connect to them. This will prevent spoilers and enhance your understanding of the references.
5. Do American Horror Stories episodes explain any mysteries left unresolved in American Horror Story?
Sometimes. Certain AHS Stories episodes have shed light on lingering questions or explored unexplored aspects of established AHS lore. These explanations can be subtle or more explicit, but they often add depth and nuance to the existing mythology.
6. Are the monsters and supernatural elements in both shows governed by the same rules?
Generally, yes. The supernatural elements and the “rules” that govern them are largely consistent between both shows. For example, the ghosts in the Murder House operate under similar constraints and possess similar abilities in both AHS and AHS Stories. This consistency helps to maintain the believability of the shared universe.
7. Does Ryan Murphy write and direct all the episodes of both shows?
Ryan Murphy is the creator and executive producer of both American Horror Story and American Horror Stories, but he doesn’t write or direct every episode. He oversees the creative direction of both series and is heavily involved in the development of storylines and characters. However, a team of talented writers and directors contribute to each show.
8. Are there any plans for a more significant crossover between American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
While there haven’t been any official announcements regarding a major crossover event, the possibility remains open. Given the shared universe and the existing narrative connections, a more ambitious crossover could be a compelling way to further explore the mythology and bring together fan-favorite characters from both shows.
9. Will American Horror Stories ever get a spin-off of its own?
Given the success of both American Horror Story and American Horror Stories, the potential for future spin-offs is certainly there. A spin-off could focus on a specific location or group of characters introduced in either show, or it could explore a completely new corner of the horror genre.
10. How does the tone of American Horror Stories compare to American Horror Story?
While both shows are firmly rooted in horror, AHS Stories often leans into more outlandish and sometimes campy territory. The shorter format allows for greater experimentation with tone and style, resulting in episodes that can be more comedic, surreal, or outright bizarre than typical AHS seasons. AHS often has a more serious, sustained tone over the course of a season.
11. Does the setting of American Horror Stories always reflect the overall season themes of American Horror Story, or are they distinct?
Generally, the settings are distinct. AHS Stories often explores new and varied settings within its episodic format, while AHS seasons typically revolve around a central location or theme that persists throughout the season. However, both shows frequently utilize iconic horror settings such as haunted houses, abandoned asylums, and isolated rural communities.
12. Where can I watch American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
Both American Horror Story and American Horror Stories are typically available to stream on Hulu. You may also be able to purchase episodes or seasons through various digital retailers such as Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play Movies & TV. Availability may vary depending on your region.