Jessica Lange Returns for a New Season of American Horror Story: Coven

Season 13 is shaping up to be a thrilling ride for fans of American Horror Story. The beloved horror anthology is revisiting one of its most iconic arcs: Coven. While the new season won’t hit screens until Halloween, showrunner Ryan Murphy teased an exciting preview this week, confirming not only the return of the witchy storyline but also the comeback of one of the series’ standout stars: Jessica Lange.

Lange, who last appeared in a cameo during Season 8, “Apocalypse,” where she reprised her role from Season 1, was a cornerstone of AHS during its first four seasons. Her presence has been a significant factor in the show’s enduring appeal, with many fans still considering Coven to be the pinnacle of the series.

Set 300 years after the Salem Witch Trials, the original Coven narrative kicks off with a new wave of violent attacks on witches, launching the thirteen-episode season. Lange plays Fiona Goode, a fierce matriarch whose ambitions clash with her coven. After a long absence from New Orleans, she returns with a vengeance, ready to unleash chaos on her adversaries. This rekindles old rivalries with other powerful figures, including Angela Bassett as the vengeful Marie Laveau and Kathy Bates as the notoriously racist serial killer Delphine LaLaurie.

Meanwhile, Fiona’s daughter Cordelia is left to guide a new generation of witches at the Academy. Though she resents her position, Cordelia strives to teach caution to her students. By the season’s conclusion, she faces off against her mother and rises as the Coven’s new Supreme, boldly revealing the existence of witches to the world.

American Horror Story has faced criticism for its tonal shifts and reliance on shock value, but Coven strikes a balance between serious themes and the campy flair that defines Murphy’s best work. It’s often hailed as the most quotable season, with memorable lines from Lange’s Fiona, such as, “When witches don’t fight, we burn,” and, “Don’t make me drop a house on you,” solidifying its legacy. The cameo by Stevie Nicks certainly added to the allure.

One of the show’s greatest strengths has always been its ensemble of charismatic actors. Coven featured many fan-favorite cast members, and Season 13 promises to continue that trend. Alongside Lange, viewers can expect to see familiar faces like Emma Roberts, Evan Peters, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, and Leslie Grossman.

Mark your calendars: American Horror Story Season 13 premieres on October 31.