The highly anticipated American Horror Story: Delicate (Season 12) is set to premiere on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 10 PM ET/PT on FX. This season, inspired by Danielle Valentine’s novel “Delicate Condition,” promises a chilling and glamorous entry into the AHS universe.
The Delicate Details: Unveiling AHS: Delicate
After a slightly delayed production schedule attributed to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, AHS fans can finally mark their calendars. This season takes a decidedly different approach, adapting a novel – a first for the series – rather than crafting an original storyline.
Adapting a Novel: The “Delicate Condition” Inspiration
While Ryan Murphy and his team are known for their creative liberties, “Delicate Condition” serves as the core blueprint for the season. The novel follows actress Anna Alcott, played by Emma Roberts, as she struggles with a difficult and increasingly terrifying pregnancy after undergoing IVF. As Anna grapples with the possibility of sinister forces at play, she finds herself questioning her sanity and the intentions of those around her.
A Star-Studded Cast: New Faces and Familiar Favorites
Beyond Emma Roberts, the season boasts a remarkable cast including Kim Kardashian, Cara Delevingne, Matt Czuchry, Billie Lourd, Denis O’Hare, Leslie Grossman, and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez. Kardashian’s casting, in particular, has generated considerable buzz and speculation, adding a fresh dynamic to the established AHS ensemble. The blend of seasoned AHS veterans and exciting newcomers guarantees a compelling viewing experience.
Understanding the Premiere and Release Schedule
While September 20th marks the official premiere, understanding the complete release schedule and how to watch is crucial.
Episode Release Pattern and FX on Hulu
New episodes of AHS: Delicate will air weekly on FX every Wednesday at 10 PM ET/PT. For those who prefer streaming, episodes will be available to stream on Hulu the day after their FX broadcast. This allows viewers flexibility in choosing how and when to experience the latest installment.
“Double Feature” Split: Breaking Down Season 12
Unlike previous seasons, AHS: Delicate is split into two parts. Part One, the initial set of episodes, premieres on September 20th. The release date for Part Two remains unconfirmed but is expected sometime in 2024. This divided structure suggests a deliberate pacing strategy, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of the complex narrative.
FAQs: Your Burning AHS Questions Answered
These Frequently Asked Questions provide comprehensive answers to common queries about AHS: Delicate and the American Horror Story universe.
FAQ 1: Is AHS: Delicate connected to any other AHS seasons?
While American Horror Story often features subtle connections and Easter eggs linking different seasons, AHS: Delicate is currently understood to be a standalone story. However, the anthology nature of the show leaves the door open for potential connections in future seasons. Keep an eye out for familiar faces or thematic echoes.
FAQ 2: What is “Delicate Condition” the novel about, and how much will it be adapted?
“Delicate Condition” by Danielle Valentine is a suspenseful thriller about an actress undergoing IVF who becomes convinced someone or something is preventing her from having a baby. The book blends psychological horror with themes of fertility, paranoia, and gaslighting. While the TV adaptation will draw heavily from the novel’s plot and characters, creative liberties are expected, ensuring surprises for even seasoned readers.
FAQ 3: Will Ryan Murphy be heavily involved in AHS: Delicate?
While Ryan Murphy is the co-creator and executive producer of American Horror Story, his level of direct involvement can vary season by season. Halley Feiffer is credited as the writer and showrunner for AHS: Delicate, suggesting a more hands-on role in shaping the narrative. However, Murphy’s overall vision and influence will undoubtedly be present.
FAQ 4: Why was the release date of AHS: Delicate pushed back?
The initial release date was reportedly impacted by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Production was temporarily halted in support of the writers and actors advocating for fair wages and working conditions.
FAQ 5: How many episodes will AHS: Delicate have?
The exact number of episodes for each part of AHS: Delicate hasn’t been officially confirmed. However, past seasons typically have around 10 episodes, so it’s reasonable to expect a similar number across both parts. The breakdown between Part 1 and Part 2 is yet to be revealed.
FAQ 6: Is AHS renewed for more seasons beyond Delicate?
Yes! American Horror Story has been renewed through Season 13. Fans can rest assured that the anthology series will continue to deliver fresh and terrifying stories for the foreseeable future.
FAQ 7: Where can I watch past seasons of American Horror Story?
Past seasons of American Horror Story are primarily available to stream on Hulu. Certain seasons may also be available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV.
FAQ 8: What is Kim Kardashian’s role in AHS: Delicate?
Kim Kardashian plays a character named Siobhan Corbyn. While specific details about her role remain under wraps, promotional materials suggest she is a close confidante of Anna Alcott, and possibly linked to the increasingly surreal events unfolding around Anna’s pregnancy. Her character’s motives and true allegiance are intentionally ambiguous.
FAQ 9: Will there be more announcements or trailers before the premiere?
FX and the AHS team are likely to release further trailers, teasers, and promotional materials leading up to the premiere. Staying tuned to official social media channels and entertainment news outlets is the best way to stay informed.
FAQ 10: Is AHS: Delicate a good starting point for new viewers?
While understanding references to previous seasons can enhance the viewing experience, AHS: Delicate’s standalone nature makes it an accessible entry point for new viewers. The storyline is self-contained, allowing newcomers to easily jump into the world of American Horror Story without feeling lost.
FAQ 11: What kind of horror elements can we expect in AHS: Delicate?
Based on the novel and the show’s history, expect a blend of psychological horror, body horror, and supernatural elements. Themes of paranoia, gaslighting, and the anxieties surrounding pregnancy will likely be prominent. Prepare for disturbing imagery and unsettling plot twists.
FAQ 12: Will the actors involved in the WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes be promoting AHS: Delicate?
The resolution of the SAG-AFTRA strike will dictate the actors’ ability to promote AHS: Delicate. If the strike concludes before or shortly after the premiere, cast members are expected to participate in publicity efforts. However, the timing is dependent on the ongoing negotiations and union guidelines.