Here Are the Franchise Veterans and New Cast Members You’ll Watch in ‘American Horror Story’ Season 13 (with Pictures)

Since its premiere in 2011, ‘American Horror Story‘ has established itself as a defining force in contemporary television horror by blending gruesome anthology narratives with a revolving ensemble of celebrated actors. Co-creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk built a signature format that invites franchise veterans to reinvent themselves each season while frequently introducing fresh talent to the macabre universe.

Over twelve seasons, the series has explored haunted houses, clandestine covens, retro summer camps, and contemporary dystopias, frequently connecting storylines through recurring faces and beloved lore. As anticipation builds for the thirteenth chapter of the acclaimed FX anthology, viewers continue to look back at the most defining performers and legacy characters who have shaped the franchise’s history.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is one of the foundational stars of the anthology series created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk. Throughout the run of ‘American Horror Story’, she has portrayed numerous central figures, including Cordelia Goode in ‘American Horror Story: Coven’ and Sally McKenna in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’. Her work on the franchise earned her five Primetime Emmy Award nominations across multiple seasons. In ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’, Paulson took on dual responsibilities by playing Tuberculosis Karen in the first half and Mamie Eisenhower in the second. Her frequent collaborations with Murphy have established her as an enduring creative anchor for the horror franchise.

Evan Peters

Evan Peters made his debut in the inaugural season, ‘American Horror Story: Murder House’, where he portrayed the troubled ghost Tate Langdon. Over the subsequent decade, Peters tackled a wide spectrum of complex roles, from serial killer James Patrick March in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’ to cult leader Kai Anderson in ‘American Horror Story: Cult’. His performances across nine seasons of the anthology have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated global fanbase. In addition to his anthology work, Peters starred in Murphy’s crime drama ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’, which earned him a Golden Globe Award. His versatile range continues to make him one of the most recognized figures in the franchise.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett joined the franchise in the third season, ‘American Horror Story: Coven’, portraying the historic voodoo queen Marie Laveau. She went on to play prominent roles in subsequent installments, including Desiree Dupree in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’ and Ramona Royale in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’. Bassett received two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her work on the anthology. She also stepped behind the camera to direct the episode ‘Chapter 6’ in ‘American Horror Story: Roanoke’. Her commanding screen presence has left an indelible mark on the television universe.

Kathy Bates

Academy Award winner Kathy Bates entered the series during ‘American Horror Story: Coven’ as the sinister historical socialite Madame Delphine LaLaurie. That breakthrough performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie. Bates continued as a series regular in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’, ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’, ‘American Horror Story: Roanoke’, and ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Her portrayal of diverse characters, from the bearded lady Ethel Darling to the butcher Thomasin White, showcased her vast dramatic abilities. Bates remains one of the most celebrated performers in the history of the anthology.

Emma Roberts

Emma Roberts introduced the memorable character of telekinetic movie star Madison Montgomery in ‘American Horror Story: Coven’. She reprised the fan-favorite role years later in the crossover season ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Roberts also headlined ‘American Horror Story: 1984’ as final girl Brooke Thompson and led ‘American Horror Story: Delicate’ as publicist-turned-starlet Anna Victoria Alcott. Outside the flagship horror series, she collaborated with Murphy as the lead in the horror-comedy series ‘Scream Queens’. Her frequent leading roles have made her a cornerstone of the modern franchise.

Billie Lourd

Billie Lourd became a recurring fixture of the anthology starting with her portrayal of Winter Anderson in ‘American Horror Story: Cult’. She subsequently appeared in ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’ as the powerful young witch Mallory. Lourd maintained her franchise presence with key roles in ‘American Horror Story: 1984’, ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’, and ‘American Horror Story: NYC’. Beyond the mainline series, she also participated in the spin-off series ‘American Horror Stories’. Her deadpan delivery and dynamic characterizations have cemented her place within Murphy’s ensemble.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe joined the television franchise in ‘American Horror Story: Coven’ as human voodoo doll Queenie. She reprised the role of Queenie in both ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’ and ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Sidibe also portrayed secretarial assistant Regina Ross in the fourth installment, ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’. Prior to her television success, the actress earned an Academy Award nomination for her breakout role in the drama film ‘Precious’. Her character Queenie remains one of the most recognizable figures from the Miss Robichaux’s Academy storyline.

Leslie Grossman

Leslie Grossman joined the horror franchise in the seventh season, ‘American Horror Story: Cult’, playing Meadow Wilton and Patricia Krenwinkel. She quickly became a series regular, portraying the wealthy survivor Coco St. Pierre Vanderbilt in ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Grossman continued her regular involvement through ‘American Horror Story: 1984’, ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’, and ‘American Horror Story: NYC’. Her long-standing working relationship with Ryan Murphy dates back to her starring role on the teen comedy-drama series ‘Popular’. She brings a distinct blend of sharp humor and dramatic tension to her diverse roles.

Jessica Lange

Jessica Lange served as the leading dramatic powerhouse for the first four seasons of ‘American Horror Story’. She won two Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her portrayals of Constance Langdon, Sister Jude Martin, and Fiona Goode. After playing carnival owner Elsa Mars in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’, Lange made a celebrated guest return in ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Lange later partnered with Murphy again on the acclaimed historical drama series ‘Feud: Bette and Joan’. Her foundational performances established the critical prestige and theatrical tone of the entire franchise.

John Waters

John Waters is an iconic filmmaker, author, and actor renowned for his subversive cult cinema classics like ‘Pink Flamingos’ and ‘Hairspray’. Throughout his multifaceted career, Waters has made memorable guest appearances on various television series, including ‘The Simpsons’ and ‘Feud: Capote vs. The Swans’. His signature visual aesthetic and countercultural sensibility align naturally with the camp sensibilities of Ryan Murphy’s television universe. Waters has maintained a distinct legacy as a master of transgressive underground storytelling. His extensive career in film and television spans over five decades of creative work.

Joey Pollari

Joey Pollari is an American actor and musician recognized for his versatile performances across film and television. He gained widespread attention for portraying Lyle in the critically acclaimed romantic comedy-drama film ‘Love, Simon’. Pollari also held leading roles on the Disney XD series ‘Aaron Stone’ and the ABC anthology series ‘American Crime’. In addition to his screen acting, he pursues music under the recording moniker Odd Comfort. His diverse background includes appearances in independent cinema and theatrical productions.

Alex Consani

Alex Consani is a prominent American model and social media personality who has made waves in the global fashion industry. She began her modeling career at a young age and quickly signed with major agencies, walking runways for luxury designers worldwide. In 2024, Consani made history by winning the Model of the Year award at the prestigious Fashion Awards in London. Her vibrant digital presence and comedic content have earned her millions of followers across social platforms. Her expansion into entertainment reflects the franchise’s tradition of casting distinctive cultural figures.

Paul Anthony Kelly

Paul Anthony Kelly is a dynamic actor who has worked across theater, television, and independent film projects. He has cultivated a reputation for taking on daring and emotionally complex character roles on stage and screen. Kelly continues to expand his dramatic portfolio through specialized television appearances and collaborative artistic productions. His presence in contemporary casting lists highlights the blend of emerging talent alongside established industry veterans.

Madelaine Petsch

Madelaine Petsch achieved international fame for her seven-season portrayal of Cheryl Blossom on the drama series ‘Riverdale’. Following the conclusion of that series, she moved into the horror genre by headlining the slasher film ‘The Strangers: Chapter 1’. Petsch also executive produced and starred in psychological thrillers such as the feature film ‘Sightless’. Her background in stylized drama and horror makes her a compelling addition to modern television ensembles. In addition to acting, Petsch has cultivated a massive online audience through lifestyle and behind-the-scenes content.

John Carroll Lynch

John Carroll Lynch delivered one of the most frightening performances in television history as Twisty the Clown in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’. He later returned to the franchise to portray real-life killer John Wayne Gacy in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’ and Mr. Jingles in ‘American Horror Story: 1984’. Beyond the horror genre, Lynch has built an extensive film career with notable roles in ‘Fargo’, ‘Zodiac’, and ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’. He also made his feature directorial debut with the critically praised drama film ‘Lucky’. His imposing physical presence and deep emotional resonance make him a staple character actor.

Mat Fraser

Mat Fraser is an English actor, writer, and musician who made a lasting impression as Paul the Illustrated Seal in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’. Fraser was born with phocomelia due to the drug thalidomide, and he has long been an outspoken advocate for disabled representation in media. Following his breakout run on the anthology, he starred in productions such as the BBC drama series ‘His Dark Materials’ and the miniseries ‘The Beast Must Die’. He has also performed extensively with leading theater companies, including the Royal Shakespeare Company. Fraser continues to champion authentic disability casting across the international performing arts community.

Mena Suvari

Mena Suvari first gained international prominence for her acclaimed performances in the feature films ‘American Beauty’ and ‘American Pie’. She joined the television franchise in ‘American Horror Story: Murder House’ as Elizabeth Short, the real-world historical figure known as the Black Dahlia. Suvari later reprised her role as the tragic Hollywood figure in the crossover season ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Her broad career encompasses leading roles in independent thrillers, psychological dramas, and voice acting. She has also authored a personal memoir detailing her journey through the entertainment industry.

Berto Colón

Berto Colón is an accomplished character actor who has appeared across several high-profile television dramas and procedural series. He is widely recognized for his recurring role as Cesar Velazquez in the popular Netflix comedy-drama series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Colón expanded his television resume with prominent roles in the crime drama ‘Power Book II: Ghost’ and the HBO series ‘The Deuce’. His screen presence often combines physical gravitas with grounded dramatic authenticity. He has steadily built a solid reputation through varied roles across network and streaming television.

Frances Conroy

Frances Conroy is a veteran actress whose work across ‘American Horror Story’ has earned her two Primetime Emmy Award nominations. She debuted as the tragic housekeeper Moira O’Hara in ‘American Horror Story: Murder House’ before playing the iconic fashionista Myrtle Snow in ‘American Horror Story: Coven’. Conroy also portrayed prominent roles in ‘American Horror Story: Asylum’, ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’, ‘American Horror Story: Cult’, ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’, and ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’. Outside the anthology, she is globally recognized for her Golden Globe-winning portrayal of Ruth Fisher in the HBO drama ‘Six Feet Under’. Her theatrical style and emotional depth remain integral to the identity of the franchise.

Avantika

Avantika Vandanapu, known mononymously as Avantika, is a rising actress who gained widespread recognition as Karen Shetty in the musical comedy film ‘Mean Girls’. She previously starred as the lead in the Disney Channel original movie ‘Spin’ and appeared in the comedy film ‘Senior Year’. Her television experience also includes a recurring role in the comedy series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Avantika has established herself as a versatile young performer across both musical and dramatic genres. Her casting in genre-defining projects reflects her rising status in the entertainment industry.

Grace Dumdaw

Grace Dumdaw is an emerging talent whose screen credits include appearances in modern television productions and streaming projects. She made notable guest appearances in the Peacock mystery series ‘Poker Face’ and the HBO Max series ‘And Just Like That…’. Dumdaw brings a fresh perspective to ensemble dramas through her dynamic performances and classical training. Her growing body of work positions her among an exciting new wave of screen performers.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne made her debut in the anthology series as the enigmatic Ivy Ehrenreich in ‘American Horror Story: Delicate’. Prior to joining the franchise, she built an international modeling career before transitioning to major feature films such as ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. Delevingne also held a leading role in the neo-noir fantasy television series ‘Carnival Row’ alongside Orlando Bloom. Her television work extended to the mystery comedy series ‘Only Murders in the Building’, where she played artist Alice Banks. She continues to balance high-fashion projects with high-profile dramatic television roles.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver joined the franchise in a central role as Adam Carpenter in ‘American Horror Story: NYC’. He also co-wrote several episodes of that eleventh season, highlighting his creative talents both in front of and behind the camera. Carver previously worked with Ryan Murphy on the Netflix period drama series ‘Ratched’ and the stage adaptation film ‘The Boys in the Band’. Earlier in his television career, he gained prominence for his roles on ‘Desperate Housewives’ and the supernatural teen drama ‘Teen Wolf’. Carver continues to be a recurring collaborator across Murphy’s television and cinematic universe.

Jamie Brewer

Jamie Brewer made a historic impact with her television debut as Adelaide Langdon in ‘American Horror Story: Murder House’. She returned to portray the psychic witch Nan in ‘American Horror Story: Coven’ and later reprised the character in ‘American Horror Story: Apocalypse’. Brewer also appeared in ‘American Horror Story: Freak Show’ as the ventriloquist dummy Marjorie and in ‘American Horror Story: Cult’ as Hedda. Beyond her screen roles, she won a Drama Desk Award for her performance in the Off-Broadway play ‘Amy and the Orphans’. She has broken barriers for actors with Down syndrome across both stage and screen.

Elle Chapman

Elle Chapman is an actress and producer who has appeared in notable film and television productions in recent years. She gained attention for her role as Meg in the comedy feature film ‘A Man Called Otto’ starring Tom Hanks. Chapman also made an appearance in the biographical crime series ‘Florida Man’ on Netflix. Her diverse skill set includes theatrical performance, independent film production, and commercial work. She represents an expanding roster of emerging talent making headway in mainstream entertainment.

Seth Gabel

Seth Gabel appeared in the horror franchise as the notorious real-life serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer during the Devil’s Night storyline in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’. He is well known for portraying Cotton Mather in the supernatural horror series ‘Salem’ and Lincoln Lee in the sci-fi drama ‘Fringe’. Gabel also starred as Michele Besso in the National Geographic biographical anthology series ‘Genius’. His early television credits include prominent roles in the drama series ‘Dirty Sexy Money’ and the superhero series ‘Arrow’. His background in genre television showcases his ability to portray intricate, intense characters.

Orlando Jones

Orlando Jones is a versatile actor and comedian who gained early fame as one of the original cast members on the sketch comedy series ‘MADtv’. He later earned widespread critical acclaim for portraying Mr. Nancy in the fantasy television series ‘American Gods’. Jones also starred as Captain Frank Irving on the supernatural drama series ‘Sleepy Hollow’ across multiple seasons. His extensive film credits include memorable performances in ‘The Replacements’, ‘Evolution’, and ‘Drumline’. With decades of experience in both comedy and genre storytelling, Jones possesses a commanding dramatic presence.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is an acclaimed comedian, writer, and actress known for her distinct deadpan comedic delivery. She created and starred in the semi-autobiographical Amazon Prime comedy series ‘One Mississippi’. In genre entertainment, Notaro played helicopter pilot Marianne Peters in the post-apocalyptic action film ‘Army of the Dead’. She also held a recurring role as Commander Jett Reno on the science fiction series ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Her unique timing and versatility allow her to transition seamlessly between comedy and dramatic suspense.

Fedor Steer

Fedor Steer is a character actor who has appeared in several prominent genre television shows and horror projects. He gained notable recognition for portraying the terrifying ghost William Hill, also known as the Tall Man, in ‘The Haunting of Hill House’. Steer also appeared in the Netflix horror feature film ‘The Pale Blue Eye’ alongside Christian Bale. His tall stature and striking features have made him a sought-after talent for chilling and mysterious character roles. He continues to contribute memorable physical and dramatic performances to contemporary horror productions.

Zach Villa

Zach Villa joined the franchise in a major role as real-life serial killer Richard Ramirez in ‘American Horror Story: 1984’. His chilling performance in the slasher-inspired season earned him strong praise from both critics and fans. Villa’s television resume also includes appearances on the drama series ‘Shameless’ and the action-thriller series ‘Station 19’. In addition to on-screen acting, he is a trained vocalist and musician who has performed extensively in theatrical productions and rock bands. His intense stage presence and musical background provide a distinct edge to his dramatic roles.

Tell us which of these iconic performers and returning characters you are most excited to see in the comments.