One key American Horror Story star may not be returning for season 13. Created by Ryan Murphy, American Horror Story is an acclaimed anthology horror series that has been running since 2011. In that time, it has been nominated for various Emmys, winning 17 of them. While its format means that its seasons feature new characters, the series has numerous recurring actors who play roles in multiple seasons. These include A-list performers such as Angela Bassett, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Kathy Bates, Jessica Lange, Lady Gaga, and Emma Roberts.

As revealed by Gold Derby (via Deadline), one former American Horror Story actor may not be returning for season 13. Actor Patti LuPone said she might not be coming back for season 13. When asked her whether she would be returning, noting that Murphy "wanted to bring the group back together for season 13." LuPone seemed dubious about this, saying "Yeah, I don't think so." Her full quote is detailed below:

LuPone: What group is that, though?

Gold Derby: The really, really cool people.

LuPone: Yeah, I don’t think so. I think he was probably talking about the guys.

What This Means For American Horror Story

LuPone Has Been In 2 Previous Seasons

LuPone first appeared in American Horror Story in season 3, playing Joan Ramsey in American Horror Story: Coven. Unlike co-stars like Lange, the actor then took a long break from the series. She returned in season 11 in 2022, playing Kathy Pizazz in the season titled NYC. She did not appear in season 12, Delicate, which wrapped up in April 2024. As such, having her back for season 13 would mark her third season of the series. She recently played a key role in Agatha All Along, so her return would likely be popular.

Jessica Lange has also implied that she will not return for American Horror Story season 13.

LuPone's latest quote suggests, however, that the actor will not be coming back for season 13. It is unclear who exactly she means when she assumes that Murphy was "talking about the guys." Most likely, it refers to the male actors from season 11, which included Zachary Quinto, Jeff Hiller, Joe Mantello, and Russell Tovey, among others. Murphy has also already teased the potential return of Paulson and Peters for season 13, so they could be part of the effort to "bring the group back together."

Our Take On Patti LuPone's American Horror Story Appearance

A Lot Is Still Developing For Season 13

With American Horror Story season 13 not arriving until at least 2026, there is still a lot left in the air casting-wise. LuPone seems pretty sure in her conviction that she will not return this season, but it is still possible for surprises to happen. The way season 13 is cast, more broadly, will likely depend on whether American Horror Story season 13 ends up being its last. Murphy stepped down as showrunner for Delicate, but has suggested season 14 and beyond is possible, depending on where the show wants to head.

Source: Gold Derby (via Deadline)