American Horror Story Season 2 Cast

In the unsettling world of American Horror Story: Asylum, the second season of the renowned anthology, fear takes root within the confines of Briarcliff Manor. Transported to the 1960s, this chapter probes the eerie enigmas ensconced within a mental institution. As the plot unfurls, a diverse cast breathes life into a spectrum of characters, each wrestling with personal demons. Amidst the ominous ambiance and convoluted tales, the talented ensemble infuses richness into the somber narrative. With a focus on psychological terror and societal tensions, Asylum showcases the series' knack for immersing audiences into the shadowy recesses of the human mind.

What is American Horror Story Season 2 about?

The second installment of the American horror anthology, American Horror Story: Asylum, unfolds in 1964 within the fictional mental institution, Briarcliff Manor. This season navigates the lives of both staff and inmates, weaving through horror archetypes and societal concerns like racism, homosexuality, and sexism. It intricately intertwines multiple plotlines, including asylum dynamics, a serial killer, a deranged scientist, extraterrestrials, and demonic possession.

Lauded for its darkness, unforeseen turns, compelling performances, and social commentary, the season earned Emmy Award nominations. Critics admired its exploration of societal issues but some pointed out a lack of clarity and an emphasis on shock value. Despite mixed reviews, it stands as a captivating and ambitious extension of the series, delving into themes of hope, love, and faith, while showcasing exceptional cinematography and music.

Who is in American Horror Story Season 2’s cast?

Ryan Murphy's Emmy-winning anthology series, American Horror Story, has firmly embedded itself in pop culture during its sprawling 11-season journey. Season 2, also known as Asylum, specifically acted as a pivotal point for this achievement. The star-studded cast of American Horror Story: Asylum includes familiar actors from the inaugural season - Jessica Lange, Zachary Quinto, Sarah Paulson and Lily Rabe among others; furthermore it introduces new members such as Joseph Fiennes and Lizzie Brochere.

Lily Rabe

Following her portrayal of Nora Montgomery, mother to the notorious Infantata in the previous season, Lily Rabe takes on the role of Sister Mary Eunice, the second-in-command. Eunice, embodying simplicity and naivety in line with her character's name, establishes a compelling dynamic within the narrative. Rabe's versatile talent extends beyond American Horror Story, with noteworthy performances in Miss Stevens, The Undoing, and Love & Death.

Jessica Lange

Jessica Lange graced the screen in season 1 as Constance Langdon and reprised her presence in season 2 as Sister Jude, a no-nonsense nun reigning over Briarcliff with unwavering authority. Beyond American Horror Story, Lange has left her mark in notable roles such as Tootsie, All That Jazz, and The Politician. Notably, her portrayal of Constance Langdon in AHS season 1 earned her a well-deserved Golden Globe.

Zachary Quinto

Quinto left an impression in season 1 as Chad, the former owner of Murder House embroiled in a conflict with Constance over the unborn child of the new owners. Transitioning to season 2, he takes on the role of Dr. Oliver Thredson, a psychiatrist characterized by logic, reason, and, significantly, compassion. In this season, Quinto's portrayal takes a more serious and grounded tone compared to the flamboyant Chad. Beyond American Horror Story, he's recognized for his diverse roles, including Sylar in Heroes and his iconic portrayal of Spock in Star Trek (2009) and its sequels, Star Trek Into Darkness (2013), and Star Trek Beyond (2016).

James Cromwell

Cromwell takes on the role of Dr. Arthur Arden, the morally ambiguous physician at Briarcliff. The forest surrounding the institution hides mutated humans, outcomes of Arden's sinister experiments on the inmates. Outside the American Horror Story realm, Cromwell has left his mark in significant roles such as Babe, Six Feet Under, and Succession.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson made her debut in the first season as Billie Dean Howard and continued to captivate audiences for the next seven seasons, taking a hiatus in season 9. Notably, she portrayed the aspiring reporter Lana Winters in season 2, initially investigating Briarcliff for a story but finding herself admitted involuntarily. Beyond her contributions to American Horror Story, Paulson has left her mark in notable roles such as The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story, Glass, Jack and Jill, and Ocean’s Eight.

Joseph Fiennes

Fiennes takes on the character of Monsignor Timothy Howard, portraying the seemingly content priest with a vision for Briarcliff that diverges from his counterparts, Sister Jude and Dr. Arden. Fiennes has showcased his acting prowess in other acclaimed roles, such as The Handmaid’s Tale, Shakespeare in Love, and The Mother.

Evan Peters

Peters sheds his shaggy blonde persona from season 1's Constance's dead son Tate and steps into Sister Jude's punishing world in season 2 as Kit Walker, a newly admitted inmate at Briarcliff Manor. Accused of murdering his wife (played by Britne Olford), Kit insists she was abducted, not by humans. Peters, known for his versatility, has played significant roles beyond AHS, including appearances in the X-Men franchise, Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, and Mare of Easttown.

Chloë Sevigny

Chloë Sevigny embodies the character of Shelley, a nymphomaniacal inmate shrouded in mystery within the asylum's confines. Though details about Shelley are scarce, she deftly maneuvers through the eerie asylum, strategically positioning herself to become a discreet observer of the establishment. Sevigny, celebrated for her versatile performances, has left an indelible mark in productions such as Big Love, Bloodline, and Boy's Don't Cry.