Unlike American Horror Story: Double Feature, the eleventh season of American Horror Story will follow a more typical programming schedule, according to FX. Over the years, the horror anthology has established itself as a hallmark of the genre, presenting viewers to horrific stories and a cast of characters that are both disturbing and, at times, immensely lovable at the same time. As a result of its widespread appeal, the series has inspired two prequels, the most successful of which is the more grounded but no less successful American Crime Story.
However, despite the fact that American Horror Story has continuously released new seasons virtually on an annual basis since its beginning, many fans believe that the show’s latest releases have suffered from a fall in quality. Double Feature, at least in some ways, appeared to be a return to former glory, not only because it promised an intriguing split story, but also because it marked the return of several cast members who had been absent from the previous season, including Evan Peters and Sarah Paulson. However, despite the high level of anticipation that surrounded the season before its release, fans immediately leaned on Double Feature’s two very distinct parts, leading to yet another division in the community. Many viewers were left perplexed by the season’s second excursion, “Death Valley,” despite the fact that the first half of the season, named “Red Tide,” received overwhelmingly positive reviews. This uncertainty was only exacerbated by the absence of connecting tissue between the two halves.
FX chairman John Landgraf has revealed in an interview with The Wrap that the show’s split programming structure will not be returning for season 11 of Double Feature. The show’s creators acknowledged “that the concept for Season 11 is one story,” while also explaining that the season “takes place in multiple time periods, but it is one subject, one story,” with a “start,” “middle,” and an “end,” similar to many of the previous storylines. After appreciating Double Feature’s split season, Landgraf also praised the show’s season structure on season 11, “I really like this idea too, I think it’s really cool.”
American Horror Story has always been trying out new ways to enliven its stories from the beginning, and season 11 is going to be no exception. Over the years, the series has incorporated crossover characters and storylines, including musical numbers in its episodes, and welcomed a slew of celebrity guest stars, all of which contribute to the series’ really distinct vibe when compared to its rivals. American Horror Story has never been shy to deviate from the norm, and although a split season is always a possibility, season 11’s format appears to be a much safer bet in comparison to the show’s recent rocky outings.
With the series extended until at least season 13, American Horror Story has at least three more stories to tell, but showrunners Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk will have their work cut out for them if they wish to restore the program to its previous grandeur. Perhaps the simplest option for Murphy and Falchuk to win back viewers is to reintroduce legendary characters to the show, most notably Jessica Lange, whose departure left a notable void in the ensemble. With little information regarding the show’s future, a more simplified season 11 sounds like an ideal chance to re-engage the show’s fiercely loyal following.
