The original cast of American Horror Story: Murder House catapulted many actors to superstardom, while others found renewed purpose and acclaim. Their careers, post-Ryan Murphy’s initial horror anthology, took diverse and fascinating paths, ranging from leading roles in other critically acclaimed series to continued involvement in the AHS universe itself, showcasing their enduring talent and versatility.
The Cast of Murder House: A Legacy of Terror and Talent
The first season of American Horror Story wasn’t just a launchpad for a groundbreaking television format; it was a career-defining moment for many of its stars. From the Harmon family to the enigmatic Constance Langdon, the Murder House cast left an indelible mark on the horror genre. Let’s explore where life has taken them since.
Connie Britton: Beyond the Red Door
Connie Britton, as the conflicted Vivien Harmon, delivered a powerful and empathetic performance. Her career before AHS was already established with roles in shows like Friday Night Lights, but Murder House solidified her as a leading lady.
After leaving the ghostly halls of Los Angeles, Britton starred in the drama series Nashville as country music icon Rayna Jaymes, earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. She has also appeared in shows like American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson (as Faye Resnick) and Dirty John, showcasing her ability to embody complex characters in diverse narratives. Notably, Britton has maintained a steady film career, with roles in movies like Professor Marston and the Wonder Women and The White Lotus. Her post-AHS success demonstrates her exceptional range and lasting appeal.
Dylan McDermott: From Therapist to… Many Other Roles
Dylan McDermott, portraying Ben Harmon, the troubled psychiatrist, brought a quiet intensity to the first season. While he had a solid career before AHS, his portrayal of Ben garnered significant attention.
Following his stint in the Murder House, McDermott took on roles in shows like Hostages, Stalker, and Law & Order: Organized Crime. He also returned to the American Horror Story universe in subsequent seasons, including Asylum, Apocalypse, and 1984, often playing vastly different characters. His ability to reinvent himself within the AHS universe and beyond speaks to his adaptability and talent.
Evan Peters: The AHS Staple
Evan Peters, as Tate Langdon, the troubled teenager, became a breakout star. His performance was captivating and disturbing, solidifying his position as a fan favorite.
Peters has become synonymous with American Horror Story, appearing in almost every season in a variety of roles, showcasing his incredible range and dedication to the anthology series. He has also ventured into superhero territory, portraying Quicksilver in the X-Men film franchise. Most recently, he starred in Mare of Easttown to critical acclaim and received an Emmy for his work on the limited series. Peters’s diverse roles prove his willingness to take on challenging and varied projects.
Taissa Farmiga: Continuing the Horror Legacy
Taissa Farmiga, as Violet Harmon, the daughter grappling with depression and existential dread, brought a youthful intensity to the Murder House. AHS was one of her first major roles, launching her career in a significant way.
Farmiga continued to star in subsequent seasons of American Horror Story, including Coven, Roanoke, Apocalypse, and Murder House (again), cementing her status as a key player in the franchise. Beyond AHS, she has appeared in films like The Final Girls, Rules Don’t Apply, and The Nun franchise, solidifying her presence in the horror genre. She has also branched out into other genres, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Jessica Lange: The Reigning Queen
Jessica Lange, as Constance Langdon, the manipulative and enigmatic neighbor, delivered a tour-de-force performance that earned her critical acclaim and renewed public adoration. Lange’s career was already legendary before AHS, but her role as Constance injected new life into her career.
Lange continued to star in several more seasons of American Horror Story, including Asylum, Coven, and Freak Show, winning multiple Emmy Awards for her performances. Following her departure from the main AHS narrative (with brief returns in Apocalypse and a recent role in Delicate), she starred in shows like Feud: Bette and Joan and The Politician, further demonstrating her remarkable talent. Lange remains a powerhouse in the industry, with a career spanning decades and encompassing both stage and screen.
FAQs: Diving Deeper into the AHS Cast
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the original American Horror Story Cast:
1. Did all the original cast members return for subsequent AHS seasons?
No, not all original cast members returned. While some, like Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, and Jessica Lange, became franchise staples, others like Connie Britton and Dylan McDermott made sporadic appearances or did not return at all for extended periods. Their choices often depended on scheduling conflicts and creative direction.
2. Why did Jessica Lange leave American Horror Story?
Jessica Lange primarily left due to the demanding filming schedule and a desire to pursue other creative endeavors. While she enjoyed her time on the show, she felt it was time to explore different roles and opportunities, even though she did make later guest appearances.
3. Who is considered the “main” actress of American Horror Story?
While the show is an ensemble, Sarah Paulson is often considered a “main” actress due to her consistent presence and pivotal roles in numerous seasons. Evan Peters is also considered a prominent fixture for similar reasons.
4. What are some of the most notable roles the original cast has taken outside of AHS?
- Connie Britton: Rayna Jaymes in Nashville, Faye Resnick in American Crime Story.
- Dylan McDermott: Richard Wheatley in Law & Order: Organized Crime.
- Evan Peters: Quicksilver in the X-Men films, Detective Colin Zabel in Mare of Easttown.
- Taissa Farmiga: Sister Irene in The Nun franchise.
- Jessica Lange: Joan Crawford in Feud: Bette and Joan.
5. Has the original Murder House house itself been used in other TV shows or movies?
The Rosenheim Mansion, which served as the Murder House, has indeed been featured in other productions, including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The X-Files, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Its distinct architecture and eerie atmosphere make it a popular location for filmmakers.
6. Where can I watch the original American Horror Story: Murder House?
American Horror Story: Murder House is available to stream on platforms such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and FXNow, depending on your region. It’s always best to check your local listings to confirm availability.
7. What was the critical reception of the first season of American Horror Story?
Murder House received generally positive reviews. Critics praised the show’s unique blend of horror, drama, and dark humor, as well as the strong performances from the cast. It was also nominated for several Emmy Awards.
8. Did any of the cast members develop close relationships while working on AHS?
Yes, many cast members have spoken about the close bonds they formed during filming, especially those who appeared in multiple seasons. The demanding nature of the show and the intense subject matter fostered a sense of camaraderie. For example, the working relationship between Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters is well-documented and lauded.
9. Are there any plans for a Murder House sequel or spin-off?
While there haven’t been any official announcements for a dedicated Murder House sequel, the house and its characters have reappeared in later seasons, notably Apocalypse. Ryan Murphy has expressed interest in revisiting certain storylines and characters in the future, so a potential spin-off isn’t entirely out of the question.
10. How did American Horror Story impact the horror genre on television?
American Horror Story revitalized the horror genre on television by introducing an anthology format, allowing for fresh stories and characters each season while maintaining a consistent tone and aesthetic. It paved the way for other horror anthology series and demonstrated the potential for sophisticated and character-driven horror on TV.
11. Has the show ever been criticized for its explicit content?
Yes, American Horror Story has been criticized for its graphic violence, sexual content, and potentially triggering themes. Some viewers find the show excessively disturbing, while others appreciate its willingness to push boundaries.
12. What impact did AHS have on the cast member’s net worth?
AHS undeniably boosted the net worth of its original cast members. Actors who remained with the series for multiple seasons, like Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, and Jessica Lange, saw substantial increases in their earnings due to the show’s popularity and critical acclaim. Their heightened visibility also led to more opportunities in film and television.
A Lasting Legacy
The original cast of American Horror Story: Murder House left an indelible mark on television history. Their performances were captivating, their characters complex, and their contributions to the horror genre undeniable. While their careers have taken diverse paths, their time in the Murder House remains a defining moment in their professional lives, solidifying their talent and ensuring their continued success in the entertainment industry.