The highly anticipated thirteenth season of FX’s critically acclaimed anthology series, American Horror Story, has officially welcomed actor Joey Pollari to its burgeoning cast. This latest addition further solidifies the show’s reputation for assembling a powerhouse ensemble, with Pollari bringing his established working relationship with the series’ co-creators, Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, to the iconic horror franchise. The news comes as production for the upcoming season is reportedly underway, fueling fan speculation and excitement about the series’ return.
Pollari’s casting is particularly noteworthy given his recent and significant collaborations with Murphy. He is slated to appear in the upcoming Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, a project that delves into the infamous historical case. Prior to this, Pollari also made a notable appearance as Anthony Perkins in Monster: The Ed Gein Story, showcasing his versatility in portraying complex and often unsettling characters within Murphy’s distinct narrative universe. This familiarity with Murphy’s creative process suggests a seamless integration into the American Horror Story production, a show known for its demanding yet rewarding creative environment.
A Legacy of Talent: Assembling the AHS13 Roster
The inclusion of Joey Pollari adds another layer of talent to a season already boasting an impressive roster of returning veterans and popular figures from the American Horror Story universe. The announced cast for AHS13 reads like a who’s who of horror television royalty, including:
- Ariana Grande: The pop superstar, who previously captivated audiences as the delightfully wicked witch in AHS: Apocalypse and the charismatic denizen of AHS: The Circus, is set to return, promising her unique blend of star power and dramatic range.
- Sarah Paulson: Arguably the reigning queen of American Horror Story, Paulson’s return is always a cause for celebration. Her ability to embody diverse and often tragic characters, from the psychic medium Billie Dean Howard to the terrifying nurse Ratched, has made her a fan favorite and a critical darling.
- Evan Peters: Another long-standing pillar of the series, Peters has consistently delivered unforgettable performances, inhabiting a wide spectrum of characters from the innocent Tate Langdon to the villainous Kai Anderson. His return is a significant draw for long-time viewers.
- Angela Bassett: The formidable Angela Bassett, whose iconic turn as the voodoo queen Marie Laveau in AHS: Coven remains a series highlight, is a welcome presence whenever she graces the anthology. Her commanding screen presence and dramatic gravitas are invaluable assets.
- Kathy Bates: A two-time Emmy winner for her work on American Horror Story, Bates has a remarkable track record of delivering powerful and often darkly comedic performances, from the fanatical Delphine LaLaurie in Coven to the chilling Ms. Meade in Apocalypse.
- Jessica Lange: The legendary Jessica Lange, an original cornerstone of the series, has made sporadic but impactful returns. Her presence alone elevates any project, and her potential involvement in AHS13 is met with immense anticipation.
- Emma Roberts: Roberts has carved out a significant niche within the AHS landscape, known for her sharp wit and captivating portrayals, most notably as the manipulative Madison Montgomery in Coven and the fitness guru Brooke Thompson in 1984.
- Billie Lourd: Lourd has steadily risen through the ranks of the AHS ensemble, impressing with her versatile performances, from the icy Winter Anderson in Cult to the delightfully unhinged Grizelda March in NYC.
- Gabourey Sidibe: The Oscar-nominated actress brought a compelling vulnerability and strength to her role as Queenie in Coven and Apocalypse, making her return a highly anticipated event.
- Leslie Grossman: Grossman has become a reliable source of comedic relief and dramatic intensity, showcasing her range across multiple seasons, from the flamboyant Meadow Wilton in Cult to the pragmatic Ursula Grant in 1984.
The synergy between these established performers and the addition of Pollari, who has a proven track record with Murphy’s creative vision, suggests a season rich with nuanced performances and compelling character dynamics.
A Deeper Dive into Ryan Murphy’s "Monster" Franchise
Joey Pollari’s involvement in American Horror Story season 13 is further contextualized by his recent work within Ryan Murphy’s burgeoning "Monster" anthology series. This franchise, which began with the critically acclaimed Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, has explored the lives and crimes of infamous serial killers. Pollari’s casting in both Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story and his appearance in Monster: The Ed Gein Story highlights a growing collaborative relationship with Murphy, who clearly recognizes the actor’s ability to inhabit dark and complex roles.
- Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story: This upcoming installment promises to revisit the infamous 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden, a case that has captivated public imagination for over a century. While details about Pollari’s specific role remain under wraps, his involvement suggests a significant presence within the narrative, likely portraying a key figure connected to the trial or the victims. The "Monster" series often delves into the psychological underpinnings of its subjects, and Pollari’s past performances indicate a capacity for such intricate character work.
- Monster: The Ed Gein Story: In this earlier entry, Pollari took on the role of Anthony Perkins, a fascinating meta-casting given Perkins’ iconic portrayal of Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, a character heavily influenced by the real-life crimes of Ed Gein. This casting choice underscores Murphy’s penchant for playing with cinematic and cultural references, weaving them into his true-crime narratives. Pollari’s ability to embody such a meta-textual role demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of performance and its connection to broader cultural dialogues.
The consistent casting of Pollari across these projects within Murphy’s "Monster" universe suggests a trusted working relationship and a shared artistic vision. It also implies that Pollari may bring a particular intensity and gravitas to his roles within the horror genre, qualities that are highly valued in the often-unsettling world of American Horror Story.
The Persistent Echoes of "Coven"
One of the most persistent and exciting rumors surrounding American Horror Story season 13 is the potential for a crossover with the beloved and highly successful fourth season, Coven. This season, which centered on a coven of witches in New Orleans, featured many of the actresses now confirmed for AHS13, including Sarah Paulson, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Angela Bassett, Jessica Lange, and Gabourey Sidibe. The return of this core group, coupled with the addition of Pollari, has fueled speculation that the narrative might revisit or expand upon the lore established in Coven.
- Coven’s Legacy: American Horror Story: Coven (2013-2014) was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its strong female ensemble, supernatural themes, and stylish aesthetic. It introduced iconic characters like Fiona Goode (Lange), Cordelia Foxx (Paulson), Misty Day (Paulson), Marie Laveau (Bassett), and Madison Montgomery (Roberts), many of whom are now slated to return.
- Narrative Potential: A crossover or direct continuation of the Coven storyline would offer a rich tapestry of narrative possibilities. The unresolved plot points, the complex relationships between the witches, and the ongoing struggle between good and evil within the supernatural world provide ample material for new stories. The presence of actors who were central to Coven makes this rumor particularly plausible.
- Fan Demand: The immense popularity of Coven means that any nod to its narrative or characters would be met with significant fan enthusiasm. The anthology format of American Horror Story allows for such creative weaving of past and present storylines, a strategy that has been employed in previous seasons, such as the crossover season Apocalypse, which blended elements from Coven and Murder House.
While FX and the show’s creators have yet to officially confirm any crossover elements, the ensemble cast strongly suggests that the themes and characters from Coven may play a significant role in season 13, adding another layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated season.
The Broader Impact and The Future of AHS
The consistent evolution of American Horror Story under the guidance of Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk has cemented its place as a flagship series for FX. Each season, while distinct in its thematic and narrative approach, maintains a core identity rooted in provocative storytelling, striking visuals, and the recurring talent that has become synonymous with the show. The casting of Joey Pollari, a performer with a growing rapport with Murphy, alongside a constellation of seasoned AHS veterans, signals a continued commitment to high-caliber performances and ambitious thematic exploration.
The longevity of American Horror Story, now entering its thirteenth season, is a testament to its adaptability and its ability to consistently reinvent itself while retaining a loyal fanbase. The show has explored a wide array of horror subgenres, from haunted houses and alien abductions to witch covens and cults. This willingness to experiment with different themes and settings, coupled with the reliable presence of its core cast, has allowed the series to maintain its cultural relevance.
The implications of Pollari’s casting extend beyond his individual contribution. It reflects a strategic approach to building a creative team that fosters ongoing collaboration and allows talent to grow within the Murphyverse. His experience with the "Monster" series indicates a comfort with challenging subject matter and a knack for inhabiting characters with complex psychological landscapes, traits that are essential for success within the demanding world of American Horror Story. As the show continues to push boundaries and explore new territories within the horror genre, the integration of actors like Pollari, who are already well-versed in Murphy’s signature style, ensures a seamless and impactful production. The anticipation for season 13 is palpable, and with each new casting announcement and rumor, the excitement for what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the American Horror Story saga only grows.
