Fans hoping to see Ariana Grande join the highly anticipated American Horror Story Season 13 will have to wait a little longer. Series creator Ryan Murphy has confirmed that the Grammy-winning singer and actress was originally set to appear in the upcoming season but had to step away because of an increasingly busy schedule.
In an interview published on August 6 with The Hollywood Reporter, Murphy revealed that Grande’s departure had nothing to do with creative differences or changes in the show’s direction. Instead, the decision came down to unavoidable scheduling conflicts tied to her music career.
Ariana Grande’s Packed Schedule Forced Her Exit
According to Murphy, Ariana Grande was genuinely excited to return to his television universe. However, the timing became impossible due to commitments surrounding her Eternal Sunshine Tour and the promotion of her latest album.
Murphy praised Grande’s professionalism and explained that both sides agreed to postpone the collaboration rather than cancel it permanently.
“I love Ariana Grande. We’re great friends. It was really, truly a scheduling conflict. I said, ‘OK, we’ll kick that can down the road,’ and she said, ‘Great.'”
The creator emphasized that Grande remains one of his favorite collaborators and that the role could easily return in a future season when her schedule allows.
Ryan Murphy Says He’ll “Always Work” With Ariana Grande
Rather than replacing Grande with another actor, Murphy chose to keep the opportunity open.
He shared that he fully supports the singer’s career and believes there’s still plenty of room for her in the American Horror Story universe.
“I will always work with her. I love her, and I support her. It was a very big swing, but I might bring that back for another season, per Ariana’s availability. I think the world of her.”
His comments strongly suggest that fans shouldn’t rule out an Ariana Grande appearance in future installments of the anthology series.
Ariana Grande’s History With Ryan Murphy
Although she won’t appear in Season 13, Ariana Grande is no stranger to Ryan Murphy’s productions.
She previously starred as Chanel #2 in the horror-comedy series Scream Queens, where her memorable performance quickly became a fan favorite despite her character’s brief appearance.
Murphy also noted that Grande has always been passionate about horror. Throughout her music videos, performances, and creative projects, she has frequently incorporated horror-inspired visuals and storytelling, making her a natural fit for the American Horror Story franchise.
American Horror Story Season 13 Brings Back Fan Favorites
While Ariana Grande won’t be part of the cast this season, American Horror Story Season 13 is shaping up to be one of the franchise’s biggest celebrations yet.
Ryan Murphy confirmed that the season will reunite several beloved stars from previous installments, including:
- Jessica Lange
- Sarah Paulson
- Evan Peters
- Emma Roberts
- Angela Bassett
- Kathy Bates
- Billie Lourd
- Frances Conroy
Murphy described the upcoming installment as a special reunion celebrating the legacy of the long-running horror anthology.
Season 14 Is Already in Development
Fans also received another exciting update: American Horror Story isn’t ending anytime soon.
Murphy confirmed that development on Season 14 has already begun, meaning Ariana Grande could still make her long-awaited return if her schedule aligns with production.
With Murphy openly expressing his desire to work with Grande again, the possibility remains very much alive.
Will Ariana Grande Join American Horror Story in the Future?
Although Ariana Grande’s appearance in American Horror Story Season 13 won’t happen, Ryan Murphy has made it clear that the door remains wide open.
Instead of viewing this as a canceled collaboration, both Murphy and Grande see it as a postponed opportunity. If her touring and music commitments ease in the coming years, fans may finally get to see the pop superstar return to Murphy’s horror universe.
Given their strong creative relationship and Grande’s love for the horror genre, a future collaboration appears more like a matter of when rather than if.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande’s exit from American Horror Story Season 13 was driven entirely by scheduling conflicts, not creative disagreements. Ryan Murphy remains enthusiastic about working with her again and has already hinted that the planned role could return in a future season.
With Season 14 already in development, fans still have every reason to hope that Ariana Grande will eventually make her long-awaited debut in the American Horror Story franchise.