Ariana Grande Joins the Cast of American Horror Story Season 13

The FX anthology series American Horror Story is returning for its 13th season with a powerhouse cast and a highly anticipated newcomer. On October 31, 2025, Ryan Murphy Productions officially announced that pop superstar and Wicked actress Ariana Grande will join the ensemble, marking her return to a Ryan Murphy project for the first time since 2015.

A Reunion of Scream Queens

Grande’s casting isn’t just a win for AHS fans. it’s a reunion of the Scream Queens alumni. Grande previously worked with Murphy on the short-lived horror comedy and she’ll be reuniting with fellow Scream Queens stars Emma Roberts and Billie Lourd, both of whom are confirmed for Season 13.

The announcement was delivered via a stylized Instagram Reel from Ryan Murphy Productions, featuring the cast list set to Vera Lynn’s “I’ll Be Seeing You” and the cryptic message: “Surprise, bitch. I bet you thought you’d seen the last of me.”

The Return of the Franchise Legends

While Grande brings fresh energy to the series, Season 13 is leaning heavily into nostalgia by bringing back a massive roster of franchise regulars. This season marks the return of several fan favorites who haven’t appeared in years:

• Jessica Lange: Returning for the first time since Season 8’s Apocalypse (2018).
• Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, and Gabourey Sidibe: As well returning after a significant hiatus.
• Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters: Last seen in Season 10’s Double Feature (2021).

Other confirmed cast members include Leslie Grossman and the aforementioned Roberts, and Lourd.

Plot Speculation: Is Coven Returning?

While official plot details remain under wraps, there is significant buzz regarding the theme of the season. Reports suggest that Coven may be making a comeback, with speculation that Grande could portray a new member of the Robichaux Academy.

Evan Peters expressed his excitement about the new addition in January 2026, telling E! News that Grande is an “incredible performer and actress” and noting that he is curious to see what the season has her doing.

Key Takeaways: AHS Season 13

• New Addition: Ariana Grande joins the cast for the first time.
• Veteran Returns: Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, and others are confirmed.
• Premiere Window: The season is slated to premiere around Halloween 2026.
• Production: Created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does American Horror Story Season 13 premiere?

The season is expected to premiere around Halloween 2026.

Who is the new cast member for Season 13?

Ariana Grande has been officially cast, joining a group of returning series regulars.

Which previous AHS actors are returning?

The cast includes Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Jessica Lange, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, and Leslie Grossman.

With a blend of fresh talent and the return of the “Golden Era” cast, Season 13 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious installments in the American Horror Story legacy.