American Horror Story fans, the wait is almost over! Season 13 of the acclaimed anthology series, titled “American Horror Story: Delicate,” is poised to premiere its first part on September 20, 2023, on FX.
The Premiere and What to Expect from “Delicate”
The highly anticipated “American Horror Story: Delicate” is based on Danielle Valentine’s novel “Delicate Condition,” a thriller often described as a “feminist update to Rosemary’s Baby.” This marks a significant departure for the series, adapting a pre-existing work for the first time. The season stars Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian, and Cara Delevingne in leading roles. The plot revolves around Anna Alcott (Roberts), an actress desperately trying to get pregnant who begins to suspect that someone is trying to prevent her from having a baby.
Early glimpses suggest a season steeped in psychological horror, body horror, and themes of female agency and the anxieties surrounding motherhood. The promotional material is appropriately unsettling, hinting at a dark and twisted narrative that will likely keep viewers on the edge of their seats. While Ryan Murphy is not directing the entire season, his creative influence is undoubtedly present.
The season is planned to be split into two parts, with the second part airing at a later, as-yet-unannounced date. This allows for a build-up of suspense and ensures that the narrative unfolds with deliberate pacing.
Diving Deeper: Your Burning Questions Answered
To further enrich your understanding of the upcoming season, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When exactly does “American Horror Story: Delicate” Part 1 premiere?
A1: September 20, 2023, at 10 PM ET/PT on FX. It will be available to stream the next day on Hulu.
Q2: What is “American Horror Story: Delicate” based on?
A2: The season is based on Danielle Valentine’s novel, “Delicate Condition,” a contemporary horror novel often compared to “Rosemary’s Baby.”
Q3: Who are the main cast members in “American Horror Story: Delicate”?
A3: The main cast includes Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian, and Cara Delevingne. Other returning AHS actors include Zachary Quinto, Denis O’Hare, Billie Lourd, Leslie Grossman, and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez.
Q4: Will Ryan Murphy be involved in directing this season?
A4: While Ryan Murphy’s direct involvement in directing individual episodes is limited this season, his role as creator and executive producer ensures his creative influence is present throughout. The writing and directing team is headed up by Halley Feiffer, who is serving as showrunner for the season.
Q5: Why is the season being split into two parts?
A5: Splitting the season allows for a more deliberate pacing of the narrative and an opportunity to build suspense and anticipation between the two halves. It’s a strategic move to maintain viewer engagement and maximize the impact of the story. The WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes may also have played a role in the decision.
Q6: When will Part 2 of “American Horror Story: Delicate” be released?
A6: As of now, the release date for Part 2 has not been officially announced. Information regarding its premiere will be revealed at a later date, likely closer to the end of Part 1’s run.
Q7: Where can I watch “American Horror Story: Delicate”?
A7: “American Horror Story: Delicate” will premiere on FX and be available to stream the next day on Hulu.
Q8: Will there be any returning characters from previous seasons?
A8: While the plot of “Delicate” is largely self-contained, the franchise often features subtle connections and easter eggs referencing past seasons. Keep an eye out for potential nods or thematic parallels to previous installments. Several actors who have appeared in previous seasons will return.
Q9: Is “American Horror Story” renewed for future seasons?
A9: Yes, “American Horror Story” has been renewed through Season 13. In January 2020, FX renewed the series for three additional seasons (11, 12, and 13).
Q10: What kind of horror can we expect in “Delicate”?
A10: Based on the source material and promotional materials, expect a blend of psychological horror, body horror, and themes exploring the anxieties surrounding pregnancy, motherhood, and control. The season aims to create a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking experience.
Q11: Is “Delicate Condition” a difficult book to adapt?
A11: Adapting “Delicate Condition” presents a unique challenge. The novel deals with sensitive and potentially triggering themes, requiring careful consideration and responsible storytelling. The showrunners will need to balance the book’s unsettling elements with the franchise’s signature style of heightened drama and spectacle.
Q12: How many episodes will be in each part of “American Horror Story: Delicate”?
A12: The exact number of episodes for each part of “American Horror Story: Delicate” has not been officially announced. Previous seasons have varied in length, but it’s likely that each part will consist of approximately 4-6 episodes. This is speculative, and an official announcement should be expected soon.
The Allure of American Horror Story: Why We Keep Coming Back
American Horror Story has captivated audiences for over a decade with its ever-changing narratives, anthology format, and talented ensemble cast. The show’s ability to reinvent itself with each season, tackling different themes and subgenres of horror, is a key factor in its enduring popularity. Ryan Murphy’s signature style, characterized by bold storytelling, striking visuals, and a willingness to push boundaries, has created a unique and instantly recognizable brand.
The success of American Horror Story also lies in its ability to tap into contemporary anxieties and social issues. Each season often reflects cultural fears and societal concerns, using the lens of horror to explore complex and relevant topics. The show’s dedicated fanbase appreciates its intelligence, its willingness to take risks, and its commitment to delivering a consistently thrilling and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Final Thoughts: Prepare for the Unsettling
With its premiere date locked in, “American Horror Story: Delicate” is poised to deliver another season of chilling thrills and captivating performances. By adapting “Delicate Condition,” the series is venturing into new territory, promising a fresh and unsettling exploration of the anxieties surrounding motherhood and the fight for female agency. Mark your calendars for September 20th and prepare to be immersed in the darkness. The nightmare is about to begin.