American Horror Story Season 13 to Begin Filming in Early 2026
American Horror Story is officially preparing for its long-awaited return. FX has confirmed that Season 13 of the iconic horror anthology series will begin filming in early 2026, with a highly symbolic premiere date set for Halloween, October 31, 2026.
The upcoming season is expected to revisit some of the show’s most beloved and chilling storylines, particularly the witch-centered narratives of Coven and Apocalypse. Fans were thrilled when series creator Ryan Murphy revealed the cast list on Halloween, igniting excitement across the fandom.
A Familiar Cast — and a Major Surprise
Season 13 will feature the return of many fan-favorite actors who helped define the series over the years. Confirmed returning cast members include:
Sarah Paulson
Evan Peters
Angela Bassett
Kathy Bates
Emma Roberts
Billie Lourd
Gabourey Sidibe
Leslie Grossman
Adding to the excitement is Ariana Grande, who previously worked with Murphy on Scream Queens, joining the cast as a new addition.
The biggest surprise, however, is the return of Jessica Lange. The Oscar-winning actress had previously insisted she would never come back to the series, even stating in a February 2025 interview, “Oh Christ, no.” Her unexpected involvement marks one of the most shocking and celebrated casting announcements in AHS history.
Back to the Witches?
Although FX has not officially confirmed the season’s setting, all signs point toward a return to Miss Robichaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies. The Halloween release date, the cast lineup, and the promotional tease referencing Emma Roberts’ iconic Madison Montgomery line — “Surprise, b**h. I bet you thought you’d seen the last of me.”* — strongly suggest a witch-themed revival.
Ryan Murphy has long teased a return to the witches, famously stating during his 2018 Walk of Fame ceremony, “The witches will be back.” Additionally, a 2021 fan poll hosted by Murphy hinted at supernatural themes such as Salem, Bloody Mary, plagues, sirens, and other occult horrors — many of which align with the Coven mythology.
Production and Premiere Details
According to Murphy’s Instagram announcement, filming for Season 13 will begin in early 2026. Sarah Paulson confirmed her enthusiasm in an interview with Variety, saying she missed working on the show and looked forward to reuniting with the cast.
American Horror Story was renewed for its 13th season back in January 2020, following the success of American Horror Story: 1984. After a brief hiatus, the anthology is now poised for a powerful comeback.
A Legacy of Horror
Since its debut in October 2011 with Murder House, American Horror Story has continued to disturb, shock, and captivate audiences with its macabre storytelling. From haunted houses and cursed covens to asylums, freak shows, and apocalyptic nightmares, the series remains one of television’s most influential horror franchises.
With a legendary cast, a return to fan-favorite mythology, and a perfectly eerie premiere date, Season 13 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated chapters in American Horror Story history.
American Horror Story Season 13 premieres October 31, 2026, on FX, with episodes available the next day on Hulu.
