Evan Peters delivered an unforgettable performance as Kai in American Horror Story, particularly in the show's seventh season titled "Cult." The season explored the rise of a violent cult in the aftermath of the 2016 US presidential election, offering a politically charged narrative that captivated audiences. AHS: Cult fearlessly delved into the mindset of cult leaders and the workings of cults, providing a chilling and realistic portrayal.
Despite its controversial subject matter, AHS: Cult garnered positive reviews from critics, with Evan Peters' portrayal receiving widespread acclaim. Just as the actor's talent shone through every scene he appeared in, his character Kai's blue hair became an iconic element, truly capturing the essence of his unsettling personality. While Evan Peters has delivered memorable performances in his various AHS roles, American Horror Story: Cult showcased his best work in multiple roles, demonstrating his exceptional versatility as a character performer.
It Was Evan Peters' Idea For Kai To Have Blue Hair In American Horror Story
Peters' blue hair in American Horror Story season 7 could have been attributed to the show's makeup and hair department, however, the actor himself came up with the idea for Kai's distinctive azure tone. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Peters revealed that he drew inspiration from the lesser-known movie SLC Punk, where one of the characters also had blue hair. Peters associated blue hair with the punk music movement, which symbolized breaking free from societal norms. He explained, "it was kind of like, destroy what’s already kind of going on everywhere — what’s normal."
Peters' choice of blue hair was clever as it quickly and easily set Kai apart from the average person. While he wasn't implying that the punk movement was a cult, it reflected the character's mindset as he aimed to dismantle society and reconstruct it in his own way. The previously pristine image of the fictional town Brookfield Heights had already been shattered by political unrest during the election, and the arrival of Kai's growing cult only further contributed to its downfall.
Evan Peters Played Seven Different Characters In American Horror Story: Cult
Each season of American Horror Story brings something fresh and unique, and AHS: Cult was no exception. Known for his versatile acting skills, Evan Peters took on a multitude of roles in AHS: Cult, embodying seven distinct characters throughout the season. While his portrayal of the blue-haired Kai was the most prominent, Peters also portrayed cult leaders such as Jim Jones, Charles Manson, Marshall Applewhite, and David Koresh. Additionally, he took on the personas of iconic figures Andy Warhol and Jesus Christ, both characterized by their own cult followings.
These six additional characters played by Peters delved into the mindset of Kai himself, reflecting traits that defined the aspiring cult leader. Beyond the physical preparation required for such diverse roles, Peters endured immense mental strain. Extensive research was necessary for him to step into the minds of history's most notorious villains, a grueling process he likened to his own personal horror story in an interview with Conan O'Brien. Undoubtedly, this mental challenge stands as one of Peters' greatest feats as a member of the American Horror Story cast.