American Horror Story: Roanoke Debate Divides Sarah Paulson and Ryan Murphy

When it comes to the sprawling, terrifying anthology of American Horror Story: Roanoke, even the show’s biggest stars and its visionary creator don’t see eye to eye. Sarah Paulson, a staple of the franchise, recently admitted that the 2016 installment is her least favorite of the series, sparking a playful yet firm disagreement with Ryan Murphy, who considers it his personal best.

Why Sarah Paulson Dislikes American Horror Story: Roanoke

In a recent interview, Paulson was candid about her experience filming the season, where she portrayed Shelby Miller and Audrey Tindall. Despite her storied history with the show, she did not mince words regarding her feelings on this specific entry:

I don’t like it! It’s not for me! I like a lot of things about it, but that one wasn’t for me. I don’t give a s— about that season. Sorry!

Paulson previously noted in past interviews that she felt “underwhelmed” by the production. Her critique highlights a recurring sentiment among some fans who found the experimental shift in the season’s format to be more jarring than effective.

The Experimental Structure of Roanoke

What made American Horror Story: Roanoke so polarizing? Unlike the straightforward narrative arcs of seasons like Murder House or Asylum, Roanoke utilized a unique, multi-layered approach that changed how the audience consumed the horror:

• Documentary Style: The first half was presented as a re-enactment show titled My Roanoke Nightmare.
• Reality TV Twist: The narrative later pivoted to a reality series format where the original subjects and actors returned to the haunted farmhouse.
• Meta-Narrative: The blend of scripted drama and “found footage” aesthetics was a massive departure from the series’ roots.

This structural gamble is precisely why the season remains a point of contention within the fandom, moving away from traditional gothic horror toward a more modern, meta-commentary on television production.

Ryan Murphy’s Defense of the Season

Ryan Murphy is not letting the criticism slide. Upon seeing Paulson’s comments, he took to social media to proclaim “JUSTICE FOR ROANOKE,” reaffirming his stance that it remains his favorite season. While he acknowledges the disagreement, he maintains high praise for Paulson’s acting chops, stating, “My favorite season, Sarah’s least favorite… but she was so good in it!”

Ultimately, this public disagreement underscores the subjective nature of horror. While the format may have felt disjointed to Paulson, it represents the creative risk-taking that has defined Murphy’s career for over a decade. Whether you side with the actress or the creator, Roanoke continues to be one of the most discussed chapters in the American Horror Story library.

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