Ariana Grande Withdraws from American Horror Story Season 13 Due to Scheduling Conflicts
Ariana Grande will no longer appear in the 13th season of American Horror Story, as production delays have created an irreconcilable conflict with her ongoing “Eternal Sunshine” tour schedule. While the singer was previously expected to make a guest appearance on the FX anthology series, representatives confirmed the scheduling shift has forced her exit from the project.
Production Conflicts Impacting AHS Casting
The decision for Grande to step away from the series follows a shift in the production timeline for American Horror Story. According to Rolling Stone, changes to the show’s filming schedule pushed production into dates that overlap with Grande’s tour commitments. Although Grande had been linked to the project since late 2025, she was notably absent from the first teaser trailer released for the upcoming season, prompting speculation regarding her involvement.

Grande previously collaborated with show creator Ryan Murphy on the 2015 series Scream Queens. In a November interview with Variety, the singer characterized her planned role in the horror anthology as a “very tiny thing.” She noted at the time that she was grateful for the opportunity to reunite with Murphy, stating, “I’ll probably have a very tiny thing to do in it, but I’ll be grateful to be a part of it because I love everyone in it.”
Upcoming Cast and Future Projects
Despite Grande’s departure, the 13th season of American Horror Story remains anchored by long-time series collaborators. The production is set to feature a core ensemble that includes Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, and Billie Lourd, with director John Waters also attached to the project.
While her tenure in the AHS universe has been put on hold, Grande’s film career continues to move forward. She is slated to appear in the upcoming comedy Focker-In-Law, a sequel to the Meet the Parents franchise, which is currently scheduled for a theatrical release this fall.
Key Details of the Casting Change
- Reason for Withdrawal: Conflicting production and tour dates for the “Eternal Sunshine” tour.
- Scope of Role: Originally described by Grande as a “very tiny” guest appearance.
- Series History: This would have marked Grande’s first appearance in American Horror Story, following her previous work on Scream Queens.
- Confirmed Cast: The season continues production with Ryan Murphy staples including Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, and Emma Roberts.
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