Top American Horror Story Seasons Ranked: Asylum's Terror to Delicate's Dark Pregnancy Tales!

Summary

American Horror Story constantly introduces new characters, stories, and frights thrill the audience through outlandish tales of terror.
Delicate season delves into horror of pregnancy & impending motherhood.
Asylum delivers serious scares within the walls of Briarcliff .

Since its premiere in the early 2010s, “American Horror Story” has had a long run of popularity due to its ongoing creation of bizarre and outlandish horror tales. With each season, it offers fresh characters, unique storylines, and new scares to excite viewers.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that every anthology series or film has its peaks and troughs, and American Horror Story is no exception. There are those seasons that truly shine, leaving an indelible mark due to the exceptional acting talent of the cast, the intriguing narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns, and the sheer brilliance in how it delivers on its chilling title.

7. Delicate

Never Shies Away from Tackling Tough Subjects

Season: 12
Release Schedule: September 20, 2023–April 24, 2024
Number of Episodes: 9

Movies and TV shows have never hesitated to explore the harsh realities of pregnancy and childbirth, and this is precisely what season 12 did, titled “Delicate” after the book “Delicate Condition“. In this chilling narrative, Anna Alcott has already gained recognition and is now pursuing her next ambition: becoming a mother. Her fertility struggles lead her to a highly-regarded IVF specialist named Doctor Hill, who is said to be the best in his field. However, as is often the case with American Horror Story, not everything is as it appears.

Anna’s pregnancy storyline is a tumultuous one, fraught with apprehension as she suspects someone or something is determined to sabotage her pregnancy. Her anxiety is tangible, and viewers can sense the tension she endures. The climax unveils the motives of the Delicates who aim to overthrow society and establish a matriarchy by eradicating men except for a chosen few, enslaving them to serve women in power. However, Anna finds a positive resolution with the help of her late husband’s former partner. In the end, she gives birth to her child and wins an award, though it raises questions about its validity as no growth or lessons are apparent. Regardless, the season’s suspenseful build-up makes it worth watching.

6. Hotel

Guests Can Check Out, but They Can Never Leave

Season: 5
Release Schedule: October 7, 2015–January 13, 2016
Number of Episodes: 12

Introducing pop sensation Lady Gaga, there was a buzz among fans anticipating its premiere, and fortunately, it lived up to expectations. As Detective John Lowe probes into a grisly double murder, he checks into the Hotel Cortez, choosing to reside there to safeguard his family from any work-related dangers. During his stay at the Cortez, he encounters an array of eccentric permanent inhabitants like the enigmatic Sally, the brooding Sally, and charming Liz. Gradually, he uncovers the disturbing secrets hidden beneath the Hotel Cortez’s façade.

In a unique twist for the American Horror Story series, the Countess is a vampire with a knack for kidnapping children and transforming them into her own kind. Originally, James March, the hotel’s owner, was known for tormenting and slaying his guests. But on Devil Night, when the Cortez is brimming with more than just mischief, certain spectral residents decide to pay a visit. This season presents an unusual plotline as many characters find some form of happiness and resolution, setting it apart from previous entries in the franchise.

5. 1984

A Slasher Story with a Killer Twist

Season: 9
Release Schedule: September 18–November 13, 2019
Number of Episodes: 9

In my opinion, slasher movies are undeniably one of the most captivating choices within the horror genre. It’s fascinating to witness how a relentless killer, an iconic mask, and a deadly weapon can create a chilling tale of terror, especially when it involves a group of unfortunate souls who seem to be playing a never-ending game of cat and mouse in their desperate attempts to avoid becoming the next victim. It was only a matter of time before American Horror Story tackled a story centered around a slasher without simply rehashing old ideas. While there are clear influences from Friday the 13th, the series manages to inject its unique style into the narrative with an unexpected twist that unfolds as the story progresses.

A gang of teenage counselors is preparing for an action-packed summer at the infamous Camp Redwood, known for its lively partying scene. However, 14 years ago, a series of gruesome murders occurred here, and it seems history is about to repeat itself as victims are found dead one by one within the camp’s boundaries. The deceased have returned as vengeful spirits, haunting the campgrounds, and they appear to enjoy tormenting those who venture too deep into the forest. This inventive plot twist adds an intriguing layer to the storyline, elevating it above typical slasher tropes, a signature move that American Horror Story is known for.

4. Freak Show

An Homage to a Classic 30s Horror Flick

Season: 4
Release Schedule: October 8, 2014–January 21, 2015
Number of Episodes: 13

As a devoted fan, I’d say that the fourth season of “American Horror Story” truly stands out for me. It’s not just because of the powerhouse performances by franchise veterans like Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, and Evan Peters, but also due to the profound message it conveys.

In this season, Elsa’s character takes on a nurturing role, almost like a mother figure, with an air of self-importance as a performer. When she learns about recently orphaned conjoined twins, she sees an opportunity to add a unique act to her carnival attraction. This is where she meets others who, like herself, were born differently.

Though the troop shares a bond with another, they are exploited by advertising them as ‘oddities’ for audiences that Elsa can gather, attracting the spoiled, arrogant, and potentially dangerous Dandy. However, there’s another danger lurking – a killer clown named Twisty. Stanley, who craves quick money, views this attraction as his path to wealth and recognition. In a conclusion that leaves one satisfied, even Stanley ends up among the ‘oddities’, being transformed into a human chicken, reminiscent of the 1930s film Freaks.

3. Murder House

The Pilot Season is a Refreshing Take on the Haunted House Subgenre

Season: 1
Release Schedule: October 5 –December 21, 2011
Number of Episodes: 12

The TV series American Horror Story kicked off with the “Murder House” storyline, where the Harmon family – Ben, Vivien, and their daughter Violet – face challenges due to Ben’s infidelity with one of his students. In an attempt to leave their past behind, they move to a magnificent house in Los Angeles, which seems too perfect to be true. However, as it turns out, this house has a dark history, as the estate agent reveals that its former owners had tragically committed a murder-suicide. Yet, despite this grim revelation, the Harmons decide to take up residence in the house due to its enticing offer.

Instead of stopping, it would have been wiser for them to continue driving, given that the Harmon family’s circumstances appear to be spiraling out of control. It seems that everyone who has perished on the property is trapped there as spirits, unable to progress further. Not all ghosts are harmful; Moira, for example, continues her caretaking role even in death. However, those that are can be lethally dangerous to the Harmons. With a multitude of ghosts residing within it, Murder House stands out among horror movies due to its unique and vibrant spectral inhabitants, each one defying tired stereotypes, making the series captivating to watch.

2. Coven

The Season of the Witch

Season: 3
Release Schedule: October 9, 2013 –January 29, 2014
Number of Episodes: 13

The television series titled American Horror Story explores tales of various supernatural beings like vampires, spirits, and witches. During its season named Coven, the narrative centered around a group of witches residing at a prestigious academy nestled in New Orleans – known as one of the most enchanted cities globally. Naturally, housing magical teenage girls together inevitably stirs up tension, and Coven certainly does not lack it!

Meanwhile, as present-day events unfold, the past is uncovered literally when the ruthless Madam LaLaurie resurfaces to maintain her eternal feud with Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. With the coven under immense pressure due to their current Supreme nearing death, a new one will emerge, keeping viewers on their toes as they wonder which witch will become the next Supreme. In other words, the series “Coven” never ceases to amaze its audience by revealing all the secrets hidden in the past, leaving everyone in suspense about who the next Supreme will be.

1. Asylum

The Best Season With Creepiness, Suspense, and Intrigue

Season: 2
Release Schedule: October 17, 2012 –January 23, 2013
Number of Episodes: 13

Asylum, frequently praised by critics and enthusiasts alike as the top season among all American Horror Story series, certainly lives up to its reputation. The story primarily unfolds in the 1960s within the confines of Briarcliff Institute, another dismal asylum that fails to aid its patients effectively. Instead, it subjects them to a repetitive melody and administers electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to some of the most distressed individuals. Lana Winters, a journalist, becomes an unwilling resident while investigating, alongside Kit Walker, who was wrongly accused of the brutal Bloody Face murders. They encounter Grace Bertrand, a fellow patient, and Sister Jude, the stern administrator of the facility.

In addition to providing chilling alien encounters that suggest an extraterrestrial origin, Asylum also tackles earthly horrors, offering a critique of past inhumane practices. Notably, Dr. Arden emerges as one of the most terrifying antagonists, inflicting unimaginable torment on his patients. Zachary Quinto’s portrayal of the true Bloody Face is particularly memorable and is likely to stay with viewers long after they’ve finished watching. Overall, Asylum excels due to its exceptional writing, acting, and the palpable fear it instills within the confines of Briarcliff.

2025-05-05 04:57

Top American Horror Story Seasons Ranked: Asylum’s Terror to Delicate’s Dark Pregnancy Tales!