American Horror Story Confirms Season 13 Return with Ariana Grande and Franchise Icons

Los Angeles, CA — November 2, 2025 — The acclaimed anthology series American Horror Story is officially plotting its return in 2026 for a highly anticipated 13th season, according to reports from The Hollywood Reporter published on October 31. The upcoming season is set to feature a star-studded cast, including pop superstar and actress Ariana Grande, who will join a formidable lineup of franchise veterans: Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, and Jessica Lange.

The announcement has sent a ripple of excitement through the entertainment industry and among the show's dedicated fanbase. The inclusion of Grande marks a significant casting coup, signaling the series' continued ability to attract major talent, while the return of its most iconic actors promises a nostalgic yet fresh chapter for the FX and Hulu hit.

The Star Power of Season 13

Ariana Grande's involvement comes amidst her burgeoning acting career, most notably her lead role as Glinda in the upcoming two-part film adaptation of Wicked. Her transition from music to major on-screen roles has been closely watched, and her addition to American Horror Story solidifies her presence in Hollywood. While details of her character remain under wraps, her considerable fanbase and performance background are expected to bring a new dynamic to the show's dark and often theatrical narratives. The Hollywood Reporter's initial piece highlighted a "Wicked touch," likely alluding to Grande's current high-profile project and her bringing that momentum to the AHS universe.

Return of the Franchise Icons

Perhaps equally, if not more, thrilling for long-time viewers is the confirmed return of Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, and Jessica Lange. These actors have been central to many of American Horror Story's most beloved and critically acclaimed seasons, embodying a range of complex and often terrifying characters.

• Jessica Lange, a two-time Emmy winner for her work on AHS, notably left the series after Freak Show (Season 4), making her return particularly significant. Her compelling performances in early seasons are often cited as foundational to the show's success.
• Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters have been staples throughout much of the series' run, known for their versatility in portraying wildly different roles across various seasons.
• Angela Bassett, who delivered powerful performances in multiple seasons, including Coven and Hotel, also brings a strong, fan-favorite presence back to the fold.

Their collective return suggests a potential reinvigoration of the series' original creative vision and promises powerful ensemble acting that has long been a hallmark of American Horror Story.

A Legacy Continues

Created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, American Horror Story premiered in 2011 and quickly established itself as a groundbreaking anthology series. Each season presents a self-contained storyline, exploring different subgenres of horror, from haunted houses and asylums to covens and apocalyptic scenarios. The show has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following for its audacious storytelling, striking visuals, and memorable performances.

The 13th season's announcement continues this legacy, demonstrating the franchise's enduring appeal and its capacity for reinvention. While specific plot details for the 2026 season are scarce, the assembled cast hints at a potentially ambitious and character-driven narrative designed to captivate both long-standing fans and new viewers drawn in by Grande's star power.

The show has historically leveraged its unique format to explore societal anxieties through a horror lens, consistently pushing boundaries. With such a strong cast in place, anticipation is building for what themes and terrors the creators will unleash in the next chapter of this iconic series. The industry will be closely watching to see how this blend of new and veteran talent shapes the future of American Horror Story.