Yes, American Horror Story (AHS) is no longer available on Netflix in the United States. Its departure stems from a shifting landscape of streaming rights and the content ownership strategies of its parent company, Disney, and the series creator, Ryan Murphy. The series has largely moved to platforms under the Disney umbrella, including Hulu and Disney+.
Where Did AHS Go? Understanding the Streaming Shift
The removal of American Horror Story from Netflix isn’t an isolated incident. It reflects a broader trend where major media conglomerates are reclaiming their content for their own streaming services. Disney, owning both FX (the network that airs AHS) and the majority stake in Hulu, saw significant value in consolidating its popular intellectual properties onto its owned platforms.
This decision is driven by several factors. Primarily, exclusivity is a major draw for subscribers. Having AHS available only on Hulu (and, to a lesser extent, Disney+) makes those services more attractive to potential customers. Secondly, by controlling the distribution, Disney maximizes its revenue potential, eliminating licensing fees paid to third-party platforms like Netflix. Finally, owning the data related to viewership allows Disney to better understand audience preferences and tailor future content offerings.
The timeline of this transition varied depending on the season. Some seasons were removed earlier than others as licensing agreements expired. Eventually, all seasons were pulled from Netflix US, signaling a clear and definitive shift in strategy.
Finding American Horror Story Now
The good news for AHS fans is that the show remains easily accessible through other legal streaming avenues.
- Hulu: This is the primary streaming home for American Horror Story in the United States. All seasons are typically available to stream on Hulu.
- Disney+: While not the primary hub, some seasons of AHS, particularly those deemed suitable for the Disney+ audience, may be available depending on regional content libraries.
- FXNow: While primarily a catch-up service for FX programming, FXNow allows you to stream AHS episodes if you have a cable subscription that includes FX.
- Purchase/Rent: You can also purchase or rent individual episodes or entire seasons through digital retailers like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu.
It’s important to note that availability may vary based on your geographical location. Always check your local streaming services and digital retailers for the most accurate information.
FAQs About American Horror Story Streaming
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the AHS streaming situation:
Why was AHS removed from Netflix?
AHS was removed from Netflix due to the expiration of licensing agreements and Disney’s strategic decision to consolidate its content on its own streaming platforms, primarily Hulu and Disney+. This move allows Disney to maintain exclusivity, maximize revenue, and control viewership data.
Is AHS still available on Netflix in other countries?
The availability of American Horror Story on Netflix varies by country. Check your local Netflix library to see if AHS is currently available in your region. Rights agreements differ significantly across geographic areas. It’s best to check Netflix directly in your region.
Is there any chance AHS will return to Netflix in the future?
While it’s impossible to predict the future with certainty, it’s unlikely that AHS will return to Netflix in the near future. Disney’s strategy of prioritizing its own streaming services suggests that they will continue to keep AHS exclusively on platforms like Hulu and Disney+.
What seasons of AHS are available on Hulu?
Currently, all released seasons of American Horror Story are typically available to stream on Hulu in the United States. This makes Hulu the most comprehensive streaming option for AHS fans.
Is American Horror Stories (the spin-off series) available on Netflix?
No. Just like American Horror Story, the spin-off series, American Horror Stories, is primarily available on Hulu. This aligns with Disney’s content distribution strategy for the entire franchise.
Does Hulu offer a free trial to watch AHS?
Hulu periodically offers free trials to new subscribers. It’s best to check the Hulu website for the latest promotions and trial offers before signing up. If a free trial is available, it provides a great opportunity to binge-watch AHS.
Can I watch AHS on Disney+?
The availability of AHS on Disney+ is limited and often depends on regional content libraries. Some seasons might be available, especially those considered less graphic. Disney+ generally curates content that aligns with its family-friendly brand. Check your local Disney+ library for specifics.
Are there any other shows similar to AHS available on Netflix?
While AHS is no longer available on Netflix, there are several other horror and thriller series that might appeal to fans. These include shows like The Haunting of Hill House, The Haunting of Bly Manor, Ratched, and various anthology series offering diverse horror themes.
Is there a way to watch AHS without a subscription to a streaming service?
Aside from borrowing DVDs from a friend or library, the most common way to watch AHS without a subscription is by purchasing or renting individual episodes or seasons through digital retailers like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and Vudu.
Why did Disney make this decision?
As mentioned earlier, Disney made this decision primarily to bolster its own streaming platforms, Hulu and Disney+, by offering exclusive content. This strategy is aimed at attracting new subscribers, maximizing revenue, and controlling viewership data for future content development.
Will Ryan Murphy’s move to Netflix affect the future of AHS?
Ryan Murphy’s overall deal with Netflix doesn’t directly affect the streaming home of AHS, as the rights for AHS are held by Disney. While Murphy may create other horror content for Netflix, AHS remains under the Disney umbrella and is expected to continue streaming primarily on Hulu.
How do I stay updated on where AHS is streaming?
The best way to stay updated on the streaming availability of American Horror Story is to regularly check the official websites and apps of Hulu, Disney+, and your local streaming services. You can also follow official social media accounts associated with AHS and FX for announcements.