Will Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters Return to ‘American Horror Story’ for Season 10?

Will Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters return to 'American Horror Story' for season 10? What we know about the actors' future involvement in 'AHS.'

by Josh Lezmi

Published on October 7, 2019

3 min read

The ninth season of American Horror Story has opened to widespread positive reception and currently boasts a 94% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. While the 1984 setting and slasher vibe provide the signature disturbing and shocking aura Ryan Murphy has developed a reputation for, several original cast members are not involved, including series favorites Evan Peters and Sarah Paulson.

American Horror Story actors Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters — Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters arrive at the Premiere Screening Of FX’s ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’ | Kopaloff/FilmMagic

While the narrative and overall concept, up to this point, have proven worthwhile, fans miss who many deem the King and Queen of American Horror Story: Even Peters and Sarah Paulson. Evan Peters had been in every other season of AHS, and Sarah Paulson — from Lana Winters to Cordelia Foxx — has served as the show’s figurehead, especially following Jessica Lange’s departure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wcEiFIM3mM

Speaking of American Horror Story: 1984, one fan of the show stated:

Have to admit it’s not the same without the OGs. Lost some really strong performers this season but nonetheless, this season is surprisingly good so far. It’s true to 80s horror which I like.
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Review

The above sentiment seems to linger over discussions concerning the series, leading many to ask: will Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters return for the next season of American Horror Story, and bring some much-missed glory back to the show?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_a_8apGwXB8

What we know about Sarah Paulson and Evan Peters’ future involvement in ‘American Horror Story’

Back when American Horror Story season nine was still in the production phases, and the entire cast was not yet determined, Evan Peters was asked whether he would return for the slasher-themed season. He stated, “No, I’m going to sit a season out,” as Entertainment Weekly reported.

Here is the video where Evan Peters told me he will not be returning to American Horror Story. This is the first time in nine seasons he will not be part of the show! #AHS pic.twitter.com/Eb30bXzMFR
— Carlo De Santis (@CandidlyCarlo) April 2, 2019

Evan Peters’ response is quite positive; he specifically chose to use the words “sit a season out,” implying that he’s taking a break from the show but plans to return. The show is heavy, and he may just need a little breather from all the high-octane horror and creepiness. So, what about Sarah Paulson?

When it comes to Sarah Paulson, her lack of involvement in the present season likely came down to scheduling conflicts. Sarah Paulson is set to appear in Mrs. America, Ratched, and Run; she also voiced a character in this year’s Abominable and played a part in The Goldfinch, which premiered this past September. Paulson is loyal to Murphy; he has chosen her for the prequel to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Ratched, and they will likely continue to work together moving forward.

While Sarah Paulson may have a very brief cameo in a later episode of AHS: 1984, her appearance should not be expected. However, given that she has come to represent the show, and has such a positive relationship with Murphy, it would be surprising to see the series conclude without her. Thus, if season 10 winds up being the last season, you could expect Sarah Paulson to take on one of Murphy’s prized characters.

Paulson has yet to address the matter, but once explained that she would never stop working for Murphy, stating that he would have to grow tired of her! So, when it comes to loyalty, Murphy can count on Paulson to be there; she’s just to busy with his other projects at the moment.