John Waters Joins Cast of American Horror Story Season 13

The iconic filmmaker and actor will take on a "big new part" in the FX anthology series.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

American Horror Story has announced that legendary filmmaker and actor John Waters will join the cast for the show's upcoming 13th season. Waters, known for his cult classic films like Pink Flamingos and Serial Mom, will take on a "big new part" in the FX anthology series, according to the director himself. This marks the first time Waters has been involved with the horror franchise, despite being a dream casting choice for many fans since the show's inception.

Why it matters

John Waters is a perfect fit for the over-the-top, campy sensibilities of American Horror Story. As the "reigning crown prince of camp," his unique voice and delightfully menacing screen presence will undoubtedly bring a fresh and exciting new dynamic to the long-running anthology series. Fans have been clamoring for Waters to join the AHS cast for years, so his addition to Season 13 is sure to delight viewers.

The details

During a recent spoken-word performance in Baltimore, Waters himself revealed the news that he would be joining the cast of American Horror Story Season 13, though he did not disclose details about the specific role he will be playing. The filmmaker noted that he is often "typecast" as either "the devil or Chucky's father," suggesting his AHS character may fall into a similarly villainous or unsettling archetype. With Waters' history of collaborating with horror icon Vincent Price, expectations are high that he will bring a similar level of deliciously dark charm to the FX series.

  • John Waters announced his AHS Season 13 casting during a spoken-word performance in Baltimore in February 2026.

The players

John Waters

An iconic American filmmaker, actor, writer, and artist known for his transgressive cult films such as Pink Flamingos and Serial Mom. He is considered the "reigning crown prince of camp" and has increasingly taken on horror-adjacent roles in recent years.

Ryan Murphy

The co-creator and executive producer of the American Horror Story anthology series.

Brad Falchuk

The co-creator and executive producer of the American Horror Story anthology series.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going to announce tonight something new: I can't say what role, but I have a big new part in American Horror Story.”

— John Waters (Baltimore Fishbowl)

“I'm typecast. I'm always either the devil or Chucky's father...I've always been trying to steal Vincent Price's career.”

— John Waters (Baltimore Fishbowl)

What’s next

Details about John Waters' specific role in American Horror Story Season 13 are still under wraps, but fans will no doubt be eagerly awaiting more information as the premiere date approaches.

The takeaway

The addition of John Waters to the American Horror Story cast is a dream come true for many fans of the show and the filmmaker's iconic work. His unique brand of campy, transgressive horror sensibilities is a perfect fit for the anthology series, and his involvement is sure to bring a deliciously dark new energy to Season 13.