Ryan Murphy addresses Ariana Grande ‘American Horror Story’ exit: “Who is busier than Ariana”
Ariana Grande was set to star in season 13 of ‘American Horror Story’. (Image: Getty)
Ariana Grande may have stepped away from American Horror Story Season 13, but Ryan Murphy says fans haven’t seen the last of her in his horror universe.
In a 6 August interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Murphy revealed that Grande was originally set to appear in the upcoming all-star season of American Horror Story, but had to withdraw because of scheduling conflicts surrounding her ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour and the release of her latest album.
Murphy explained that Grande was enthusiastic about the project from the start, but ultimately couldn’t make the timing work.
“I love Ariana Grande. We’re great friends,” he said. “It was really, truly a scheduling conflict. I said, ‘OK, we’ll kick that can down the road,’ and she said, ‘Great.'”
Rather than recasting or abandoning the idea entirely, Murphy says he hopes to revisit the role in a future season, depending on Grande’s availability.
“I will always work with her,” he said. “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.”
Chanel #2
Grande is no stranger to Murphy’s productions, having previously appeared in Scream Queens as Chanel #2, where she quickly became a fan favourite. Murphy also noted that she’s a longtime horror fan, pointing to the genre references she’s incorporated throughout her own music and visual projects.
While Grande won’t appear in Season 13, Murphy also confirmed that American Horror Story isn’t ending anytime soon.
The upcoming American Horror Story instalment will reunite franchise favourites including Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Emma Roberts, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Billie Lourd and Frances Conroy in what Murphy describes as a one-time celebration of the show’s legacy.
The creator also revealed that work on Season 14 is already underway, leaving the door wide open for Grande to finally make her return to Ryan Murphy’s universe.
