The Complete Timeline of American Horror Story Seasons

Article Overview

American Horror Story features varying timelines and interconnected storylines that span different time periods and locations, making it challenging to follow at times.

Each season unveils fresh characters and reunites us with familiar faces, forging unexpected links between seemingly separate storylines.

Delving into societal biases, mental healthcare, witchcraft, substance abuse, and political scheming, the show seamlessly intertwines actual frights with fictional horrors.

American Horror Story is known for its distinctive approach to storytelling. Each season presents a self-contained narrative, yet contributes to a larger interconnected universe. Consequently, pinpointing the exact timeline of the entire American Horror Story series can be challenging. The show distinguishes itself through its use of varied timelines, as well as the casting of the same actors in multiple roles within a single season. Additionally, characters from previous seasons often make appearances in later seasons. Despite each season being set in different time periods and locations, surprising connections between them emerge.

For instance, in the fourth season, Freak Show, three characters from the second season, Asylum, made a return, laying the groundwork for the intertwining storylines that span across decades. While the majority of American Horror Story seasons predominantly take place in the present day, they frequently incorporate flashbacks to previous events. As Ryan Murphy's unnerving shared universe continues to evolve, it can sometimes prove perplexing to follow. Complicating matters further, many seasons feature jumps back and forth in time through flashback sequences.

American Horror Story: Freak Show (Season 4) - 1952

Set in conservative 1952 Jupiter, Florida, "Freak Show" offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of performers at Elas Mars' Cabinet of Curiosities. As one of the last operational freak shows in America, this season explores the battle against societal prejudices and financial hardships. The characters, including the two-headed Dot and Bette, Lobster Boy Jimmy Darling, and Pepper, add depth by showcasing the external challenges they face and their inner desires for acceptance and love. Notably, the arc of Pepper connects this season to "Asylum," bridging two seemingly distinct narratives. Despite "Asylum" being released two years earlier, "Freak Show" presents Pepper as 14 years younger.

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American Horror Story: Asylum (Season 2) - 1964

Taking place in the eerie walls of Briarcliff Manor during the year 1964, "Asylum" delves into the world of the macabre and the misunderstood. Originally a facility for patients with tuberculosis, the asylum now houses a diverse range of inmates, including the wrongly accused journalist Lana Winters and the mysterious figure known as the Bloody Face Killer. The presence of Pepper in the asylum connects it to "Freak Show," creating a cohesive storyline that transcends the series. "Asylum" serves as a chilling critique of mental healthcare practices in the 1960s, skillfully combining real-life characters from American Horror Story "Asylum" with historical truths. This season expertly capitalizes on its time period, making it one of the standout installments in the series.

American Horror Story: 1984 (Season 9) - 1984

In 1984, the series pays tribute to the iconic slasher films of the 1980s in Camp Redwood, a seemingly perfect summer retreat with a dark past. As a group of young adults led by Brooke Thompson arrives, seeking a summer of enjoyment, they find themselves being hunted by the vengeful and seemingly invincible serial killer, Mr. Jingles. Similar to previous seasons, "1984" brilliantly captures the essence of '80s horror through its nostalgic references and vibrant neon aesthetics, all enhanced by a synthesizer-heavy soundtrack. However, "1984" stands apart from other seasons, lacking a strong connection.

American Horror Story: NYC (Season 11) - 1981-1991

American Horror Story season 11, titled "NYC," is set in the eponymous city during a large portion of the 1980s. The season effectively utilizes the setting and time period by focusing on a series of murders involving gay men in the town, as well as the emergence of a new virus. "NYC" also offers fans several Easter eggs that reference elements from the previous 10 seasons. Additionally, the return of the Angel of Death, a character absent since season 2's "Asylum," adds to the excitement of this horror series.

American Horror Story: Murder House (Season 1) - 2011

Although "Murder House" is recognized as the first season of American Horror Story, it is actually the fourth installment in the timeline of the series. The initial season revolves around the Harmon Family, who purchased a historical mansion in Los Angeles in 2011. As they settle into their new home, namely Ben, Vivien, and their daughter Violet, they gradually become aware of the dark history that surrounds their residence. This season reaches its climax with the introduction of the birth of the Antichrist, which sets the stage for future storylines. Additionally, it occurs after the longest period of time between events in the American Horror Story timeline.

American Horror Story: Coven (Season 3) - 2013

"Coven" delves into the enchanting world of 2013's New Orleans, a vibrant city brimming with mysticism, a rich past, and a complex web of mystical politics. Within the confines of Miss Robichaux's Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies, budding witches receive guidance and nurturing from the ever-vigilant Supreme witch, Fiona Goode. Though the narrative unfolds in the present, iconic figures like the unaging Madame Delphine draw inspiration from a real-life serial killer, while "Coven" unearths the historical depths of Marie Laveau. Brilliantly interwoven with tales of witchcraft, the series masterfully explores themes of oppression, racism, and power dynamics. Imbued with the intoxicating aura of New Orleans, "Coven" firmly cements its place as a standout installment in the American Horror Story timeline.

American Horror Story: Roanoke (Season 6) - 2014-2016

"Roanoke" presents a fresh take on the American Horror Story storyline, unfolding in the form of a docudrama called "My Roanoke Nightmare." This season delves into the haunting mystery of the vanished Roanoke colony, retelling it from a contemporary perspective. In 2014, Shelby and Matt Miller purchased a farmhouse in North Carolina, only to encounter the malevolent spirits of the colony. Taking a meta-twist in 2016, the cast and their real-life counterparts come together for a follow-up show. This innovative storytelling approach, combined with references to historical events, makes "Roanoke" one of the most experimental and chilling chapters in the series.

American Horror Story: Hotel (Season 5) - 2015

Set in the mysterious Hotel Cortez in Los Angeles during the year 2015, "Hotel" explores themes of addiction, longing, and mortality. Constructed by the enigmatic and homicidal James March, this hotel acts as a snare for lost souls, providing shelter for a diverse array of ethereal inhabitants. Notably, the renowned American Horror Story Countess (played by Lady Gaga) dwells within its opulent walls, concealing a dark and insatiable craving. "Hotel" also entwines with the narrative of "Murder House," the inaugural season of the series, as evidenced by the reappearance of real estate agent Marcy and the Countess's ominous visit to the infamous abode.

American Horror Story: Cult (Season 7) - 2017

Set in the aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, "Cult" delves into the unsettling exploration of societal fears and the magnetic appeal of charismatic leaders in 2017. The narrative revolves around Ally Mayfair-Richards, whose phobias reach heightened levels in the wake of the election, rendering her vulnerable to the manipulative tactics of Kai Anderson, who skillfully exploits the public's anxieties. Furthermore, while the season takes place in contemporary times, the season emphasizes that a significant portion of the corruption and criminal activities are rooted in the past. True to form, the show interweaves real-life horrors by incorporating cameo appearances from historical figures such as Andy Warhol and Charles Manson.

American Horror Story: Apocalypse (Season 8) - 2020-2021

"Apocalypse" merges past narratives and immerses the American Horror Story universe in an epic clash of good versus evil. The story unfolds with a nuclear apocalypse in 2020, compelling survivors to seek solace in underground outposts governed by a enigmatic organization. At the heart of the tale lies Michael Langdon, the Antichrist who emerged in "Murder House," and his ascent to power poses a dire threat to what remains of humanity.

The witches from the third season's "Coven" return as the final hope for humanity, leading to epic battles, journeys through time, and crucial alliances. Characters from "Coven" and "Murder House" come together, weaving a complex web of interconnected stories. "Apocalypse" not only revisits but also reshapes events from the past, while also offering a glimpse into the future.

American Horror Story: Double Feature: Red Tide (Season 10) - 2021

American Horror Story's seasons often adopt a contemporary approach, and this is particularly true for the initial part of season 10, known as "Double Feature." The first segment of the season, titled "Red Tide," unfolds in the picturesque yet isolating town of Provincetown, Massachusetts. The plot revolves around the struggles of Harry Gardner, a writer, and his family as they search for inspiration and solace. However, lurking beneath the surface of Provincetown lies a sinister secret: a mysterious black pill that amplifies talent but exacts a horrifying cost.

American Horror Story: Double Feature: Death Valley (Season 10) - 1954-2021

While the second half of American Horror Story season 10 takes place in the present day, it is intertwined with frequent flashbacks dating back to 1954. These historical events are directly linked to the occurrences happening 70 years later. Titled "Death Valley," the storyline revolves around a group of camping students who unwittingly find themselves entangled in an extraterrestrial conspiracy. Back in 1954, the aliens made their presence known during Dwight D. Eisenhower's presidency and their influence continued throughout JFK's time in office. It is revealed in this season that JFK was assassinated because of his intention to expose the existence of the aliens.

American Horror Story: Delicate (Season 12) - 2023

Set in the present day, American Horror Story season 12 stands out as the most contemporary-looking installment of the series. Serving as a modern interpretation of Rosemary's Baby, "Delicate" centers around a woman's desperate desire to conceive a child and her journey through embryo treatment. Despite its modernity, this season also takes viewers further back in time than ever before. In the climactic episode of "Delicate" part 1, a flashback transports us to 1555 where we witness Mary I, also known as Bloody Mary, the Queen of England, striking a deal with Satan and giving birth to a demonic offspring.

Editor's P/S

American Horror Story is a highly acclaimed horror television series that has captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and unsettling atmosphere. The show's timeline can be challenging to follow, as it features varying timelines and interconnected storylines that span different time periods and locations. Each season unveils fresh characters and reunites us with familiar faces, forging unexpected links between seemingly separate storylines.

One of the things that make American Horror Story so unique is its willingness to tackle difficult and controversial topics. The show has explored themes of societal biases, mental healthcare, witchcraft, substance abuse, and political scheming. It seamlessly intertwines actual frights with fictional horrors, creating a truly immersive and unsettling experience for viewers.

Overall, American Horror Story is a well-crafted and thought-provoking series that appeals to fans of horror and drama. Its intricate storytelling and exploration of dark and disturbing themes make it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good scare.