Good news for horror fans! The anticipation is almost over. American Horror Story Season 13 is officially scheduled to premiere on FX on September 20, 2023, with episodes streaming the next day on Hulu.
The Long-Awaited Return of Horror Royalty
Ryan Murphy’s anthology series, American Horror Story, has become a cultural phenomenon, consistently delivering chilling tales, iconic characters, and unpredictable narratives. Season 13, titled “Delicate”, promises to be no different. This season is loosely based on the upcoming novel “Delicate Condition” by Danielle Valentine, described as a thriller that follows an actress who becomes convinced that a sinister figure is going to great lengths to make sure her pregnancy never happens. This departure from previous seasons, which often centered on original concepts, marks a new and exciting direction for the show.
The decision to adapt a pre-existing work has generated considerable buzz, especially among fans of Valentine’s novel. The blending of literary suspense with the established AHS aesthetic offers a potentially terrifying and thought-provoking experience. The season’s promotional material leans heavily into the theme of motherhood, paranoia, and the vulnerability of women in the entertainment industry. Expect visually stunning imagery and psychologically disturbing scenarios as the story unfolds.
Season 13: What We Know So Far
While details are still emerging, we know several key aspects about American Horror Story: Delicate. This season is split into two parts, the first premiering in September and the second part airing in 2024. This staggered release allows for optimal storytelling and build-up of suspense.
Confirmed Cast and Returning Favorites
One of the biggest draws of American Horror Story is its ensemble cast. Season 13 welcomes back series veterans and introduces fresh faces to the AHS universe. Emma Roberts, a long-time favorite, leads the cast. She will be joined by Kim Kardashian in a significant role, marking her first major television acting gig. The casting of Kardashian has been met with both excitement and skepticism, but Ryan Murphy has assured fans that she is perfect for the part. Other confirmed cast members include Zachary Quinto, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Matt Czuchry, Annabelle Dexter-Jones, and Debra Monk. The return of Zachary Quinto after a several season hiatus is especially exciting for longtime fans.
Themes and Potential Storylines
As previously mentioned, American Horror Story: Delicate draws inspiration from “Delicate Condition,” focusing on a woman’s increasing paranoia surrounding her pregnancy. The novel explores themes of female anxieties, the pressures of fame, and the manipulation within the entertainment industry.
Expect AHS to amplify these themes, adding its signature blend of horror, suspense, and social commentary. The season will likely delve into the darker aspects of motherhood, the invasive nature of the paparazzi, and the sacrifices made for success. Supernatural elements are also expected to play a significant role, creating a terrifying atmosphere filled with unsettling imagery and psychological tension.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Creative Team
Ryan Murphy remains a driving force behind American Horror Story, serving as an executive producer and writer. However, this season marks a significant change as Halley Feiffer takes on the role of sole showrunner and writer for “Delicate.” This marks a departure from the usual collaborative writing teams of previous seasons and gives Feiffer the opportunity to create a cohesive and uniquely crafted narrative. Feiffer’s experience in writing for both television and theater should provide a fresh perspective on the series while maintaining its core elements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When exactly will American Horror Story Season 13 be available on Hulu?
American Horror Story: Delicate will be available to stream on Hulu starting the day after each episode airs on FX. Therefore, the first episode will be available on Hulu on September 21, 2023.
Will all episodes of Season 13 be released at once on Hulu, or will they be released weekly?
Episodes of American Horror Story: Delicate will be released weekly on Hulu, mirroring the broadcast schedule on FX. This allows viewers to engage with the story at a consistent pace and keeps the suspense high throughout the season.
How many episodes are there in American Horror Story Season 13?
The exact number of episodes for American Horror Story: Delicate hasn’t been officially confirmed, but it is expected to follow the pattern of recent seasons and have around 10 episodes in total. This is subject to change.
What is “Delicate Condition,” the book that Season 13 is based on, actually about?
“Delicate Condition” is a thriller novel that follows Anna Alcott, a successful actress undergoing IVF. As she finally gets pregnant, she becomes convinced that someone – or something – is actively trying to prevent her from carrying the pregnancy to term. It explores themes of female paranoia, the anxieties of motherhood, and the dark side of the entertainment industry.
What role does Kim Kardashian play in “American Horror Story: Delicate”?
While specific details are being kept under wraps, Kim Kardashian plays a significant role named Siobhan Corbyn. Ryan Murphy has described her performance as “amazing,” promising a chilling and stylish portrayal. Early promotional material suggests she is a close friend or confidante of Emma Roberts’ character.
Are there any returning cast members from previous seasons besides Emma Roberts and Zachary Quinto?
Besides Emma Roberts and Zachary Quinto, other confirmed cast members are also part of the AHS family like Michaela Jaé Rodriguez. Fans should anticipate potential surprise appearances from other AHS veterans throughout the season, as Ryan Murphy is known for incorporating familiar faces in unexpected ways.
Will “American Horror Story: Delicate” connect to any previous seasons of the show?
While American Horror Story is an anthology series, some seasons have featured subtle connections or Easter eggs referencing past storylines. It is currently unknown if “Delicate” will have any direct ties to previous seasons, but it’s always possible that subtle nods or thematic parallels may emerge.
Is “American Horror Story: Delicate” suitable for all viewers, or is it intensely graphic?
American Horror Story is known for its graphic content, including violence, gore, and disturbing themes. “Delicate” is expected to maintain this tradition, so it is not recommended for viewers who are easily disturbed. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.
Where can I watch previous seasons of American Horror Story?
Previous seasons of American Horror Story are available to stream on Hulu. Some seasons may also be available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.
Will there be any spin-offs of American Horror Story in the future?
While there are no immediate plans for new spin-offs, Ryan Murphy has expressed interest in expanding the American Horror Story universe. “American Horror Stories,” an anthology series featuring self-contained episodes, has already been released. More spin-offs are always a possibility.
What makes Season 13 different from previous seasons of American Horror Story?
The key difference is the adaptation of a pre-existing novel. This is a first for the series, which has primarily relied on original concepts. It also marks Halley Feiffer’s debut as sole showrunner. Furthermore, the high-profile casting of Kim Kardashian adds a new dimension to the show’s appeal.
How can I stay updated on the latest news and information about American Horror Story Season 13?
The best way to stay informed is to follow official American Horror Story social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook). You can also check reputable entertainment news websites and subscribe to newsletters that provide updates on television shows and the entertainment industry. Also, keeping an eye on FX and Hulu’s press releases is a great way to receive updates.