There’s no single “right” way to watch American Horror Story (AHS). However, for the richest and most rewarding experience, we recommend watching in chronological order of release: Murder House, Asylum, Coven, Freak Show, Hotel, Roanoke, Cult, Apocalypse, 1984, Double Feature, NYC, and Delicate.
Understanding the AHS Universe
The beauty of Ryan Murphy’s anthology series lies in its semi-connected universe. While each season (with the exception of Apocalypse) initially presents a standalone narrative, recurring actors, subtle thematic links, and eventually, outright crossover episodes tie the seasons together in fascinating ways. Starting with Murder House allows you to organically discover these connections as they unfold, maximizing your appreciation for the overarching AHS mythos.
Why Chronological Order Matters
Following the release order offers several advantages:
- Gradual Introduction: You’ll be introduced to core themes, actors, and the show’s signature style in a paced manner.
- Avoiding Spoilers: Later seasons often reference events from earlier ones. Watching out of order can inadvertently reveal plot points and character fates.
- Contextual Understanding: Crossovers like Apocalypse rely heavily on your familiarity with previous seasons, particularly Murder House and Coven. Understanding the history of these characters enhances the experience.
- Evolution of Horror: Witness the evolution of AHS‘s horror sensibilities, from psychological thrillers to slasher homages and everything in between.
Alternatives and Considerations
While chronological order is our recommendation, alternative approaches exist:
- Thematic Order: Some viewers prefer grouping seasons based on themes like societal anxieties (Cult, 1984), historical horrors (Asylum, Roanoke), or supernatural elements (Murder House, Coven).
- Standalone Seasons: You can technically watch any season independently, but you’ll miss out on the subtle nuances and interconnected narratives.
- Dropping Seasons: If a season doesn’t resonate with you, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip it. Just be aware that this might impact your understanding of later seasons, especially Apocalypse.
FAQs: Diving Deeper into Your AHS Journey
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the terrifying world of American Horror Story:
FAQ 1: Do I have to watch every season to understand Apocalypse?
No, but strongly recommended. Apocalypse is a direct crossover between Murder House and Coven. While the season will make some sense without prior knowledge, the character motivations, backstories, and emotional weight are significantly diminished. You should definitely watch Murder House and Coven before tackling Apocalypse.
FAQ 2: Which season is the scariest?
That’s subjective, but Asylum is often cited as the most terrifying. Its blend of psychological horror, religious fanaticism, and disturbing medical experiments creates a truly unsettling atmosphere. Roanoke also utilizes found-footage techniques to deliver intense scares.
FAQ 3: Which season is the most popular?
Murder House and Coven are consistently ranked among the most popular. Murder House established the series’ unique blend of horror and drama, while Coven resonated with its compelling female characters and powerful themes of witchcraft and sisterhood.
FAQ 4: Is there a “best” season to start with if I’m hesitant?
Murder House is an excellent starting point. It’s relatively self-contained and provides a good introduction to the show’s style and tone. However, be prepared for mature themes and graphic content.
FAQ 5: Are there any seasons I can definitively skip?
While we advise against skipping seasons, some viewers find Cult and NYC less engaging than others. Cult explores modern anxieties surrounding politics and social division, which may not appeal to everyone. NYC tackles themes of AIDS and the LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s, which can be emotionally challenging. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences.
FAQ 6: Where can I watch American Horror Story?
American Horror Story is primarily available on Hulu and FX on Hulu. Seasons can also be rented or purchased through various digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.
FAQ 7: Is American Horror Stories the same as American Horror Story?
No. American Horror Stories is a spin-off anthology series. Each episode features a different horror story, often connected to locations or characters from the main AHS universe. It’s recommended to watch American Horror Story first.
FAQ 8: Do the actors always play the same characters in each season?
No. Ryan Murphy often reuses actors in different roles across seasons. This adds to the interconnectedness of the AHS universe, allowing you to appreciate the actors’ range and the recurring themes explored.
FAQ 9: Are the seasons based on real events?
Some seasons draw inspiration from real-life events and figures. Asylum is loosely based on the history of mental institutions, while Hotel is inspired by the Cecil Hotel and its infamous history. Roanoke is inspired by the Lost Colony of Roanoke.
FAQ 10: Is American Horror Story appropriate for children?
No. American Horror Story is a mature-rated series with graphic violence, sexual content, and disturbing themes. It is not suitable for children or viewers sensitive to such content.
FAQ 11: Will there be more seasons of American Horror Story?
Yes! American Horror Story has been renewed through at least season 13. Ryan Murphy continues to explore new and terrifying stories within the AHS universe.
FAQ 12: What if I’m easily scared?
If you’re easily scared, American Horror Story might not be for you! However, if you’re determined to watch it, consider starting with seasons that rely more on psychological suspense than graphic violence, such as Murder House or Coven. Watching with friends or during daylight hours can also help. Be prepared to pause or stop if a scene becomes too overwhelming.
Embracing the Horror
Ultimately, the “best” way to watch American Horror Story is the way that you enjoy it the most. However, by following the chronological release order, you’ll gain the deepest appreciation for the show’s intricate storytelling, character development, and the ever-evolving tapestry of horror that Ryan Murphy has woven. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be terrified! Enjoy the journey through the twisted and captivating world of American Horror Story.