On Aug. 3, we were blessed with some exceptional news about American Horror Story: Apocalypse [1], which is the show's eighth gripping instalment [2]. During the FX panel as part of the Summer TCA press tour, Sarah Paulson confirmed that Jessica Lange will return [3] for the upcoming season. Are you screaming? Because we're screaming. Naturally, we're digging around to get as much information as possible about Lange's role in the season. Here's what we know based on the information from the panel and the rest of the American Horror Story [4] universe.
Constance Langdon
This is the one we know for sure. At a Summer TCA press tour panel, Sarah Paulson confirmed Jessica Lange's return [5] to the series and even nailed down a character and episode. "I do have the great pleasure of letting you all know that, yes, she will be back. Jessica will be returning as Constance in an episode I'm going to direct." The Wrap added that Lange is set to guest star in episode six.
Constance's return is perhaps the most obvious; not only does she survive until the end of Murder House — she's one of the very few survivors, in fact — but she also has assumed a role as Michael Langdon's caretaker. Yes, Michael Langdon aka the Antichrist [6], who has been confirmed as a returning character [7].
Fiona Goode
Given the fact that this is a Murder House/Coven crossover season, we must of course consider the return of Fiona Goode. This one may be a bit harder to swing; Fiona, after all, is trapped in her own version of Hell with the Axeman. (Who could forget the iconic, exasperated exclamation: "What is this, Knotty Pine?!") Then again, we do know Madison Montgomery will be back, and she's quite dead by the end of Coven. Could there be a workaround that once again allows Fiona to walk the earth? Don't rule it out.
An Entirely New Character
I mean, if Jessica Lange is returning to the AHS universe, we're of course hoping the season will make the most of her talents. Best cast would be Lange playing multiple characters: Constance! Fiona! And more! Yes, it's a stretch, and at this point, Lange has only confirmed a guest appearance. But knowing American Horror Story [8], it wouldn't be too outlandish to hope for a surprise or two as the season unfolds.