No, there isn’t a new, officially branded “American Horror Story” season exclusively on Hulu. While Hulu houses the entire anthology of “American Horror Story” seasons, the platform does not host a unique iteration separate from those aired on FX. However, the “American Horror Stories,” a spin-off series also created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, is available on Hulu and often mistaken for a “new” AHS season.
The Confusing World of Horror Anthologies: AHS vs. AHStories
The confusion stems from the shared creative force behind both shows and their thematic similarities. Both “American Horror Story” (AHS) and “American Horror Stories” (AHStories) explore dark, often disturbing narratives with recurring cast members and a penchant for the macabre. Understanding the key differences is crucial to navigating the vast landscape of Ryan Murphy’s horror universe.
American Horror Story (AHS): The Flagship Series
AHS is an anthology series, meaning each season tells a completely new and self-contained story with a fresh set of characters and a distinct theme. Past seasons have delved into haunted houses, asylums, covens, circuses, hotels, Roanoke, cults, apocalypses, 1984, and New York City. These seasons typically run for 10-13 episodes, allowing for detailed character development and complex plot lines. The series has become renowned for its star-studded casts, including Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, and Emma Roberts, all of whom frequently reappear in different roles across various seasons. AHS airs its initial run on FX and is then available for streaming on Hulu.
American Horror Stories (AHStories): The Bite-Sized Companion
AHStories, on the other hand, is an anthology of anthology stories. Each episode (or set of episodes) presents a self-contained narrative, typically focusing on a single terrifying concept or locale. Think of it as a collection of short horror films within the AHS universe. While some episodes have revisited locations and themes from the main series, AHStories largely operates as its own entity. It features both established AHS actors and fresh faces. AHStories is a Hulu original series, meaning it premieres exclusively on the streaming platform. This exclusive availability is a major reason for the misconception that it’s a “new” AHS season.
Hulu: The Home of American Horror… Stories
Hulu has become synonymous with the “American Horror” franchise, primarily due to its comprehensive library of both AHS and AHStories. For fans seeking a chilling fix, Hulu offers the convenience of streaming all past seasons of AHS, along with the complete run of AHStories. This availability makes Hulu a central hub for the franchise, further fueling the confusion about exclusive content.
FAQs: Demystifying the American Horror Universe on Hulu
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the differences and availability of the American Horror franchise on Hulu:
FAQ 1: Are all seasons of American Horror Story on Hulu?
Yes, all released seasons of American Horror Story (AHS) are available for streaming on Hulu. This includes seasons 1 through the most recent season that has concluded airing on FX.
FAQ 2: Is American Horror Stories a spin-off of American Horror Story?
Yes, American Horror Stories is a spin-off series created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, the same creators behind American Horror Story. It expands upon the themes and tone of AHS but operates with a different format.
FAQ 3: Is American Horror Stories a Hulu exclusive?
Yes, American Horror Stories is a Hulu original series, meaning new episodes premiere exclusively on the streaming platform.
FAQ 4: Does American Horror Stories feature the same actors as American Horror Story?
Yes, American Horror Stories often features actors who have appeared in American Horror Story, though they typically play different characters. There’s a significant overlap in the casting pool.
FAQ 5: How many episodes are in each season of American Horror Stories?
The number of episodes in each season of American Horror Stories varies, but seasons typically consist of around 7-8 episodes. Some stories span multiple episodes, while others are self-contained within a single episode.
FAQ 6: What is the difference between American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
The key difference lies in the format. AHS is an anthology series with each season telling a single, overarching story. AHStories is an anthology of anthology stories, with each episode (or set of episodes) presenting a new and self-contained narrative.
FAQ 7: Will there be a crossover between American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
While there have been callbacks and thematic connections, a direct, significant crossover event between AHS and AHStories has not occurred. However, the shared universe allows for potential connections in the future. Episodes of American Horror Stories have revisited locations from prior AHS seasons.
FAQ 8: Where can I watch new episodes of American Horror Story?
New episodes of American Horror Story premiere on FX cable network and are subsequently available for streaming on Hulu. Check your local listings for air dates and times.
FAQ 9: Is American Crime Story also part of the American Horror Story universe?
No, American Crime Story is a separate anthology series, also created by Ryan Murphy, focusing on real-life criminal events. While similar in structure to AHS, it is not connected to the American Horror Story universe.
FAQ 10: How often are new seasons of American Horror Story released?
Typically, new seasons of American Horror Story are released annually, usually premiering in the fall. However, production schedules can vary, so announcements should be monitored for definitive release dates.
FAQ 11: Is it necessary to watch American Horror Story in chronological order?
While not strictly necessary, watching American Horror Story in chronological order is recommended to appreciate recurring themes, in-jokes, and the evolution of the franchise. Understanding previous seasons can enhance the viewing experience of later seasons.
FAQ 12: Where can I find information about upcoming seasons of American Horror Story and American Horror Stories?
Reliable sources of information include FX Network’s official website, Hulu’s streaming service listings, reputable entertainment news websites (e.g., Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline), and official social media accounts related to Ryan Murphy Productions. Beware of unverified rumors and speculation.
Final Verdict: Navigating the Horror Landscape
While there isn’t a “new” American Horror Story season exclusively on Hulu, the platform remains the definitive home for both AHS and AHStories. By understanding the distinctions between the two series and staying informed about official announcements, fans can navigate the horror landscape with confidence and enjoy all the chilling content Ryan Murphy’s universe has to offer. The confusion surrounding a “new” season stems from the popularity of the AHStories spin-off, which, being a Hulu original, creates the impression of entirely fresh AHS content arriving solely on the platform. Ultimately, both series provide unique and terrifying experiences, making Hulu a must-have subscription for horror enthusiasts.