American Horror Story Series in Order: When diving into the captivating world of American Horror Story (AHS), a critically acclaimed anthology series, choosing the best order to watch its seasons can enhance the overall viewing experience. AHS follows a unique format, where each season tells a distinct story with its own set of characters, themes, and settings. While the seasons are independent and can be watched in any order, certain chronological or thematic sequences can heighten the interconnectedness and appreciation of the series. By carefully selecting the order, viewers can fully immerse themselves in the evolution of AHS and uncover subtle connections and references that span multiple seasons. This guide aims to suggest an optimal viewing order for newcomers or fans looking to rewatch the series, allowing them to delve into the dark and intriguing tapestry of American Horror Story.
What is the best order to watch American Horror Story seasons?
Season 1: Murder House (2011)
Season 1 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Murder House” and originally aired in 2011. It serves as the inaugural season of the series, setting the tone for the show’s unique blend of horror, drama, and supernatural elements.
“Murder House” revolves around the Harmon family, who move into a haunted mansion in Los Angeles. The house has a dark history, filled with past occupants and gruesome events. As the Harmon family unravels the mysteries of the house, they encounter vengeful spirits, disturbing secrets, and their own inner demons.
The season explores themes of family, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions. It features a stellar cast, including Connie Britton, Dylan McDermott, Jessica Lange, and Evan Peters, who would become regulars in the series.
“Murder House” received critical acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling, compelling characters, and its ability to subvert traditional horror tropes. It sets the foundation for the anthology format of “American Horror Story” and introduces viewers to the twisted and chilling world they can expect from the series.
Season 2: Asylum (2012–13)
Season 2 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Asylum” and aired from 2012 to 2013. It takes viewers on a horrifying journey into the Briarcliff Mental Institution in the 1960s.
“Asylum” explores the dark and twisted aspects of the mental health system, delving into themes of sanity, identity, and societal repression. The season introduces a wide range of complex characters, including patients, staff members, and even supernatural entities lurking within the institution.
The main storyline follows journalist Lana Winters, played by Sarah Paulson, as she investigates the mistreatment of patients at Briarcliff. Alongside her, viewers are introduced to Sister Jude (Jessica Lange), the strict and authoritative head of the institution, as well as the mysterious Dr. Arthur Arden (James Cromwell) and the enigmatic patient known as Bloody Face.
“Asylum” skillfully combines psychological horror, supernatural elements, and social commentary to create a chilling and thought-provoking narrative. It tackles various taboo subjects, including religion, sexuality, and the abuse of power. The season’s atmospheric setting, eerie visuals, and stellar performances garnered critical acclaim and solidified “American Horror Story” as a boundary-pushing and unpredictable series.
“American Horror Story: Asylum” stands as a standout season within the franchise, offering a harrowing exploration of the darkness that lurks within both the human mind and the institutions designed to care for it.
Season 3: Coven (2013–14)
American Horror Story: Coven” is the title of the third season of the anthology series. Airing from 2013 to 2014, “Coven” takes viewers into the mysterious world of witchcraft.
The season is set in New Orleans and follows a coven of witches with extraordinary powers. Led by the powerful and glamorous Supreme witch Fiona Goode (Jessica Lange), the coven’s members struggle to protect themselves and their lineage from external threats while facing internal power struggles and personal demons.
“Coven” explores themes of female empowerment, identity, sisterhood, and the eternal battle between good and evil. It intertwines historical events and characters, such as the Salem witch trials, with contemporary narratives, creating a captivating blend of supernatural horror and social commentary.
The cast of “Coven” includes notable performances by Sarah Paulson, Taissa Farmiga, Emma Roberts, and Angela Bassett, among others. With its visually stunning aesthetics, intricate plot twists, and compelling character arcs, “American Horror Story: Coven” captivated audiences and solidified its place as one of the most beloved seasons in the series.
Season 4: Freak Show (2014–15)
“American Horror Story: Freak Show” is the title of the fourth season of the anthology series. Airing from 2014 to 2015, “Freak Show” transports viewers to the intriguing world of a traveling circus sideshow in 1950s Jupiter, Florida.
The season revolves around the performers of the freak show, who grapple with their own unique challenges and personal demons while facing discrimination and exploitation from the outside world. Led by the enigmatic and ambitious Elsa Mars (Jessica Lange), the troupe includes individuals with various physical abnormalities, creating a captivating mix of horror, drama, and dark humor.
“Freak Show” delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the search for belonging. It explores the complexities of humanity and society’s treatment of those who are different. The season showcases outstanding performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Kathy Bates, and Angela Bassett.
With its distinctive setting, rich character development, and exploration of societal themes, “American Horror Story: Freak Show” offers a unique and captivating viewing experience that stands out as a fan-favorite season within the series.
Season 5: Hotel (2015–16)
“American Horror Story: Hotel” is the title of the fifth season of the anthology series. Airing from 2015 to 2016, “Hotel” takes viewers into the dark and glamorous world of the Hotel Cortez in downtown Los Angeles.
The season revolves around the hotel’s mysterious and sinister history, its supernatural inhabitants, and the guests who find themselves entangled in its twisted web. Led by the enigmatic and charismatic Countess Elizabeth Johnson (Lady Gaga), the hotel is a haven for ghosts, vampires, and other malevolent beings.
“Hotel” explores themes of addiction, obsession, redemption, and the blurred lines between life and death. It intertwines multiple storylines, including the search for a serial killer known as the Ten Commandments Killer, the secrets and inner struggles of the hotel’s inhabitants, and the supernatural forces at play.
The season features an ensemble cast that includes Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, and Denis O’Hare, among others. With its dark and opulent setting, complex characters, and a blend of horror and psychological drama, “American Horror Story: Hotel” delivers a haunting and seductive narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Season 6: Roanoke (2016)
Season 6 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Roanoke” and aired in 2016. This season takes a unique storytelling approach, presenting itself as a documentary-style series within the show.
“Roanoke” centers around a couple, Shelby and Matt, who relocate from Los Angeles to a secluded farmhouse in North Carolina. The house is situated near the infamous Roanoke Colony, which disappeared mysteriously in the late 16th century. As the couple settles in, they experience increasingly terrifying and supernatural occurrences, leading to their decision to share their story in a documentary format.
The season cleverly combines dramatic reenactments with interviews from the real Shelby, Matt, and other individuals involved in the haunting events. It explores themes of haunted houses, found footage, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.
“Roanoke” is known for its intense and suspenseful storytelling, taking viewers on a suspenseful journey as the events of the past and present intertwine. The season also explores themes of colonization, American history, and the dark forces that haunt the land.
With its unique narrative structure and gripping horror elements, “American Horror Story: Roanoke” offers a fresh and chilling take on the series, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.
Season 7: Cult (2017)
Season 7 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Cult” and aired in 2017. This season takes a psychological horror approach, exploring the fears and anxieties stemming from political and social unrest.
“Cult” is set in the aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, centering around a small Michigan town and its residents. The season delves into themes of fear, paranoia, and the manipulation of public opinion. It examines the rise of a cult-like group led by Kai Anderson (Evan Peters), exploiting people’s vulnerabilities and capitalizing on the divisive political climate.
The storyline follows Ally Mayfair-Richards (Sarah Paulson), a woman plagued by intense phobias and paranoia in the wake of the election. As she struggles to distinguish reality from delusion, she becomes entangled in the web of Kai’s cult and the ensuing chaos.
“Cult” explores the psychological impact of fear and the destructive power of manipulation. It also touches on themes of identity, extremism, and the influence of mass media. The season’s narrative twists and turns, providing a chilling portrayal of the breakdown of societal order and the fragility of the human psyche.
With its tense atmosphere, strong performances, and social commentary, “American Horror Story: Cult” presents a disturbing and thought-provoking exploration of the horrors that can arise from our deepest fears and the manipulation of those fears.
Season 8: Apocalypse (2018)
Season 8 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Apocalypse” and aired in 2018. This season combines elements from two previous seasons, “Murder House” and “Coven,” creating a crossover event within the series.
“Apocalypse” takes place in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by nuclear war. The story follows a group of survivors, including familiar characters from previous seasons, as they seek refuge in an underground bunker known as Outpost 3. The survivors are chosen based on their genetic makeup and are subjected to the authoritarian rule of Ms. Venable (Sarah Paulson) and the mysterious Cooperative.
The season explores themes of survival, power struggles, and the battle between good and evil. It delves into the origins of the antichrist, Michael Langdon (Cody Fern), who was introduced in “Murder House.” As the survivors face various threats, they uncover dark secrets and are forced to confront their own demons.
“Apocalypse” also revisits the coven of witches from “Coven,” led by Cordelia Goode (Sarah Paulson), as they join forces to combat the impending apocalypse and protect their magical lineage.
The season interweaves timelines, showcasing both the pre-apocalyptic world and the grim aftermath. It blends horror, supernatural elements, and science fiction, creating a tense and suspenseful narrative that explores the consequences of humanity’s actions and the potential for redemption.
With its crossover of beloved characters, intricate storytelling, and apocalyptic backdrop, “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” offers a thrilling and satisfying culmination of previous seasons while introducing new twists and revelations.
Season 9: 1984 (2019)
Season 9 of “American Horror Story” is titled “1984” and aired in 2019. This season pays homage to the slasher films of the 1980s, creating a nostalgic and thrilling experience.
“1984” is set in the summer of 1984 and follows a group of young adults who become camp counselors at Camp Redwood. Unbeknownst to them, the camp has a dark and violent history. As they arrive, they are stalked by a deranged killer known as Mr. Jingles, who seeks revenge on those who enter the campgrounds.
The season embraces the tropes and aesthetics of ’80s horror films, including the classic “final girl” archetype, suspenseful chase sequences, and a killer with a haunting backstory. It also incorporates elements of supernatural horror and unexpected twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
“1984” explores themes of survival, trauma, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. It plays with the concept of identity and the impact of traumatic events on individuals. The season captures the essence of ’80s pop culture, from the fashion and music to the slasher film tropes that defined the era.
With its fast-paced storytelling, thrilling suspense, and nostalgic atmosphere, “American Horror Story: 1984” delivers a love letter to the horror genre of the 1980s while offering its unique twists and surprises, making it a standout season in the series.
Season 10: Double Feature (2021)
Season 10 of “American Horror Story” is titled “Double Feature” and premiered in 2021. This season presents a unique concept by dividing the story into two distinct parts, offering viewers a double dose of horror.
The first part of “Double Feature” is called “Red Tide.” Set in Provincetown, Massachusetts, it revolves around a struggling writer named Harry Gardner (Finn Wittrock), his wife Doris (Lily Rabe), and their daughter Alma (Ryan Kiera Armstrong). The family finds themselves entangled in a nightmarish scenario involving a mysterious entity that feeds on human blood. As the Red Tide takes hold of the town, the Gardners must confront their darkest desires and fight for survival.
The second part, titled “Death Valley,” introduces a new setting and characters. It follows a filmmaker named Austin Sommers (Evan Peters), his wife Belle (Billie Lourd), and their daughter Scarlett (Frances Conroy). They relocate to a secluded house in Death Valley, California, where they encounter a community of strange and otherworldly individuals. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of their new surroundings, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens their lives.
“Double Feature” explores themes of creativity, ambition, and the lengths people are willing to go to achieve success. It delves into the darkness within human nature, blurring the lines between monsters and ordinary individuals. The season combines elements of body horror, psychological terror, and supernatural elements, creating a truly chilling experience.
With its dual storylines, intriguing characters, and an exploration of different horror subgenres, “American Horror Story: Double Feature” offers a fresh and captivating take on the anthology series, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the next twist and turn.
Season 11: NYC (2022)
The eleventh season of the American horror anthology television series American Horror Story, subtitled NYC, takes place in 1980s New York City, and focuses on a string of killings involving gay men and the emergence of a new virus.
In American Horror Story: NYC, the number of unexplained homicides and missing persons steadily rises throughout the city. In the meantime, a physician makes a terrifying discovery, and a local reporter becomes the topic of tomorrow’s front page story. AHS: NYC is the eleventh episode of the anthology series created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, which has won numerous awards.
With its unique narrative structure strong performances, and social commentary, “AHS: NYC” offers a fresh and chilling take on the series and and solidified its place as one of the most beloved seasons in the series.
Season 12: Delicate
The upcoming book by Danielle Valentine titled Delicate Condition will serve as the inspiration for the twelfth season of the American horror anthology series American Horror Story, which has been given the subtitle Delicate. Newcomers Kim Kardashian, Matt Czuchry, Cara Delevingne, Annabelle Dexter-Jones, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Odessa A’zion, Julie White, and Debra Monk are confirmed to appear, along with seasoned actors Emma Roberts, Zachary Quinto, Billie Lourd, and Denis O’Hare. Returning cast members also include Denis O’Hare. The series was conceived of by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, who both work for the cable television channel FX, and it is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.
How many American Horror Story series are there?
There are ELEVEN (11) seasons of “American Horror Story.” Each season of the show tells a self-contained story with different characters, settings, and themes, although some actors reprise roles across multiple seasons.
List of American Horror Story Series in Order Release Date
Here is a list of the released seasons of “American Horror Story” in chronological order based on their release dates:
- American Horror Story: Murder House — October 5 – December 21, 2011
- American Horror Story: Asylum — October 17, 2012 – January 23, 2013
- American Horror Story: Coven — October 9, 2013 – January 29, 2014
- American Horror Story: Freak Show — October 8, 2014 – January 21, 2015
- American Horror Story: Hotel — October 7, 2015 – January 13, 2016
- American Horror Story: Roanoke — September 14 – November 16, 2016
- American Horror Story: Cult — September 5 – November 14, 2017
- American Horror Story: Apocalypse — September 12 – November 14, 2018
- American Horror Story: 1984 — September 18 – November 13, 2019
- American Horror Story: Double Feature — August 25 – October 20, 2021
- American Horror Story: NYC — October 19 – November 16, 2022
- American Horror Story: Delicate — TBA
Is it important to watch AHS in order?
While each season of “American Horror Story” is a self-contained story with its own unique setting and characters, there are recurring themes, references, and connections between the seasons that enhance the overall experience. Watching the series in order allows you to fully appreciate these connections and the subtle nods to previous seasons. You’ll also gain a better understanding of the overarching mythology and recurring characters that appear in multiple seasons. However, it is not absolutely necessary to watch the series in order, as each season can be enjoyed on its own. So, while it enhances the viewing experience, you can still jump into any season that catches your interest.
What is the scariest series of AHS?
Opinions on which season of “American Horror Story” is the scariest may vary depending on personal preferences and individual tolerance for different types of horror. However, many fans consider “American Horror Story: Asylum” (Season 2) to be one of the scariest and most unsettling seasons of the series. Set in an insane asylum during the 1960s, it delves into themes of mental illness, supernatural occurrences, and psychological horror. The season explores dark and disturbing subject matter, including demonic possession, sadistic doctors, and the blurred line between sanity and madness. Its intense atmosphere, disturbing imagery, and chilling performances contribute to its reputation as one of the most terrifying seasons of “American Horror Story.”
Which season of AHS is the best?
While opinions may differ, here is a list of the seasons of “American Horror Story” ranked based on critical reception, fan popularity, and overall impact:
- “American Horror Story: Asylum” (Season 2) – Known for its dark and intense atmosphere, compelling storytelling, and standout performances, this season is often considered the best by fans and critics alike.
- “American Horror Story: Murder House” (Season 1) – The inaugural season of the series remains a fan favorite for its haunted house premise, strong character arcs, and effective blend of horror and drama.
- “American Horror Story: Coven” (Season 3) – This season explores witchcraft and voodoo in New Orleans, featuring powerful female characters, stylish visuals, and a mix of horror and dark humor.
- “American Horror Story: Freak Show” (Season 4) – Set in a circus freak show in the 1950s, this season delves into themes of acceptance, identity, and the darkness that lies beneath the surface of a seemingly picturesque community.
- “American Horror Story: Roanoke” (Season 6) – This found-footage-style season offers a unique twist on the haunted house concept, blending reality television and supernatural horror to create a chilling and unpredictable narrative.
- “American Horror Story: Hotel” (Season 5) – Set in a haunted hotel in Los Angeles, this season boasts a stylish and atmospheric setting, memorable performances (including Lady Gaga), and a blend of supernatural and psychological horror.
- “American Horror Story: 1984” (Season 9) – Paying homage to ’80s slasher films, this season embraces a nostalgic and campy tone, delivering a fun and thrilling ride for horror fans.
- “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” (Season 8) – This season serves as a crossover between the “Murder House” and “Coven” seasons, weaving together past and present storylines in a post-apocalyptic setting.
- “American Horror Story: Cult” (Season 7) – Exploring the theme of political and societal anxieties, this season follows a cult’s rise to power and its manipulation of fear in a divided America.
- “American Horror Story: Cult” (Season 10) – Set in Provincetown, Massachusetts, this season introduces a new ensemble cast and explores themes of vampires and the supernatural.
- “American Horror Story: NYC” (Season 11) – Takes place in 1980s New York City, and focuses on a string of killings involving gay men and the emergence of a new virus. AHS: NYC has all of Murphy’s hallmarks and more: it’s sexy, salacious, and subversive—not least due to the era and community in which it’s set.
Remember, this ranking is subjective and personal preferences may vary. It’s best to watch the seasons and decide for yourself which ones resonate with you the most.
Conclusion:
American Horror Story,” a groundbreaking anthology series, has captivated audiences for over a decade with its dark and twisted tales. From haunted houses to insane asylums, witches to freak shows, and cults to apocalypses, each season offers a unique and chilling storyline. With its exceptional writing, stellar ensemble cast, and visually stunning production, the series has redefined horror television. It continuously pushes boundaries, exploring the depths of human depravity and supernatural terror. “American Horror Story” has left an indelible mark on the genre, enticing viewers with its macabre allure and proving that horror can be both horrifying and deeply compelling.
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