American Horror Story: 15 years since FX’s anthology gamble paid off

Fifteen years ago today, FX premiered "American Horror Story," a seasonal anthology series that became a television powerhouse. TVLine reports that the show's debut on Oct. 5, 2011, introduced a haunted house story that subverted expectations and launched a lasting franchise.

Before "American Horror Story," anthology series mostly delivered new stories every week. The seasonal format — a fresh cast and setting each year — was a risk. According to TVLine, that gamble paid off so well that it inspired later hits like "True Detective" and "Fargo."

Creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk built a rotating ensemble of actors. Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Lily Rabe, and Jessica Lange all appeared in multiple seasons. Lange won two Emmys for her work: one for playing Constance Langdon in Season 1 and another for portraying Fiona Goode in Season 3, "American Horror Story: Coven."

The one-season commitment came with a business advantage. Nick Grad, now co-president of FX Entertainment, told The Wrap that the format made the series easier to sell. "You’re not asking anyone to sign up beyond one commitment," he said. "It’s like doing a movie."

Grad also credited creative risk-taking for the show's longevity. "If you let the creative dictate the way, I think the people will respond," he told The Wrap.

• American Horror Story
• anniversary
• anthology
• FX
• horror TV
• Ryan Murphy