FX’s American Horror Story is gearing up for a major comeback season, and one of its most beloved characters is officially returning. Ryan Murphy has confirmed that Sarah Paulson will once again play Cordelia Goode, the powerful witch introduced in “American Horror Story: Coven.”
Alongside a photo of Paulson as Cordelia, Murphy wrote on Instagram: “AHS 13. The Return of Sarah Paulson as Cordelia Goode. The Supreme Rises. And yes we have rebuilt the entire Robichaux Academy.”
Cordelia—originally introduced as Cordelia Foxx—served as headmistress of Miss Robichaux’s Academy before rising to become the Supreme. The character previously appeared in both the Coven and Apocalypse seasons, and her return strongly hints that the new season may revisit that storyline. The rebuilt academy further fuels speculation that Season 13 could act as a continuation or tribute to the fan-favorite witch-centric arc.
Season 13 is set to premiere on FX in September 2026, finally confirming long-circulating rumors about its release window. Production is already underway, with early images revealing Paulson in a candlelit setting and Jessica Lange—another franchise staple—also back on set.
The upcoming installment is also shaping up to be a reunion of some of the show’s most recognizable faces. The ensemble includes Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, and Leslie Grossman. Ariana Grande is also joining the cast, reuniting with Murphy after ‘Scream Queens,’ alongside former co-stars Roberts and Lourd. Cult filmmaker John Waters is another notable addition. With so many returning actors tied to earlier storylines, the season may function as a “greatest hits” chapter—an idea hinted at by Peters, who said, “We’re all getting back together to do this greatest-hits season.”
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