American Horror Stories Season 3: The Tapeworm Cast & Character Breakdown

Warning: This article contains spoilers for American Horror Stories, season 3, episode 3!

Summary

"Tapeworm" delves into the sinister underbelly of the fashion industry, illustrating the manner in which it consumes hopeful models and compels them to take drastic measures in search of triumph.

In her desperate quest for the perfect physique, Vivian embarks on a treacherous journey, ultimately resorting to the consumption of a tapeworm in order to shed pounds and attain supermodel status.

In "Tapeworm," the third episode of American Horror Stories season 3, Ryan Murphy's anthology series delves into the dark side of the fashion industry, illustrating the extreme lengths individuals are willing to go for fame and recognition, even if it means self-destruction and harming others. Vivian Lee Finch, a young aspiring model from smalltown Iowa, arrives in New York City to join Sheila Klein's modeling agency. However, after Klein deems her "too fat," Vivian becomes desperate to lose weight. When fellow model Heather suggests a doctor who can provide a miraculous drug, Vivian, due to her medical condition, is left with no choice but to pursue an alternative method - the infamous tapeworm.

As the pounds slip away, Vivian secures prestigious editorials and eventually graces the cover of Vogue. However, the insatiable appetite of the tapeworm remains unquenched, compelling her to continuously indulge. Determined to halt the havoc this voracious organism wreaks on her life, she resorts to a final, desperate measure to extract it herself. Regrettably, having allowed it to flourish into a colossal and formidable entity, the tapeworm tragically claims her life upon its departure. Discovering Vivian's lifeless body, Heather unwittingly becomes the next target of this malicious tapeworm, arriving at Sheila Klein's studio significantly slimmer and more glamorous. This outward transformation serves as a powerful symbol of the extreme lengths individuals are willing to go to achieve success and notoriety within an industry that thrives on mutual destruction and self-sacrifice.

Lisa Rinna As Sheila Klein

In her role as the reptilian fashion pundit, Lisa Rinna brings her considerable charisma and charm as the head of the Sheila Klein modeling agency. Being icy, shrewd, and calculating, she understands the qualities required to become a successful supermodel, which she sees in Vivian. Rinna waits in secrecy, eager to see if the young woman is willing to go the extra mile to prove herself. Rinna is renowned for her portrayal of Billie Reed on NBC's beloved soap opera Days of Our Lives, as well as Taylor McBride on Melrose Place and herself on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

Laura Kariuki As Vivian Lee Finch

In the role of Vivian Lee Finch, Laura Kariuki portrays a young woman with scoliosis who is determined to demonstrate her ability to become a model and grace the cover of Vogue. Kariuki skillfully navigates the emotional complexities of the character, seamlessly transitioning between wide-eyed innocence, intense anger, and profound sadness as she grapples with the influence of a tapeworm she swallows to shed pounds. As an aspiring actress on the cusp of fame, Kariuki's trajectory in the industry mirrors Vivian's journey. Her recent appearances include notable roles in shows like Black Lightning and The Wonder Years.

Hazel Graye As Heather Billings

Hazel Graye, also known as Heather Billings, is a young aspiring model from Montana who has been tirelessly working to secure a contract with an agency. Upon her arrival in New York City, she meets Vivian on her very first day. Graye effectively portrays Heather's warm-hearted nature and artistic passion, which starkly contrasts with Vivian's self-centeredness and unquenchable desire for success. However, there is an underlying suggestion, as mentioned by Sheila to Vivian, that Heather would also do whatever it takes to ascend to the top. Recently, Graye has made appearances in Special Ops: Lioness, previous seasons of American Horror Stories, and In the Deep.

Rob Yang As Dr. Thaddeus Lau

Rob Yang takes on the role of Dr. Thaddeus Lau, the doctor who introduces Vivian to her dreams but at a cost. Initially, he presents her with a weight loss pill called Mondify that promises rapid weight loss. However, he then offers her a more unconventional method to stay on top in the fashion industry - the infamous tapeworm. Portraying Dr. Lau, Yang brings a sense of sympathy and the ability to make Faustian bargains, making him an integral yet conflicted part of the fashion industrial complex. Besides his role in this series, Yang has also appeared in popular shows like Succession, Rabbit Hole, and The Americans, as well as notable films such as The Menu.

Tapeworm Supporting Cast & Characters

Ava Eisenson As Lisa

Taking on the role of Lisa, the stylist responsible for curating Vivian's wardrobe for the highly anticipated Vogue cover, Ava Eisenson brilliantly captures the challenges and frustrations caused by the model's turbulent outbursts fueled by her tapeworm affliction. With her experience as both a producer and an actor, Ava has garnered recognition for her performances in notable projects like Milkwater, The Politician, and Only Murders in the Building.

Andrea Sooch As Alessia Levy

Andrea Sooch, a Hungarian actress, portrays Alessia Levy, the individual responsible for the Vogue shoot. In addition to her role on American Horror Stories, Sooch is recognized for her work on Better Call Saul, Claws, and John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum.