Over the past decade, Ryan Murphy’s critically acclaimed anthology series, “American Horror Story,” has unnerved audiences with its darkly imaginative tales. Each season dives into a unique horror motif, from the confines of “Asylum” to the mystical world of “Coven” and the cataclysmic events of “Apocalypse.” As we gear up for the premiere of the twelfth season titled “Delicate” on September 20, fans have been treated to a chilling new poster that hints at a suspenseful narrative inspired by Danielle Valentine’s novel, Delicate Condition.
AHS 12: Decoding the “Delicate” Poster
Released by the show’s official Twitter account, the poster offers a tagline that reads, “Hold your loved ones close, hold your fears closer.” This eerie image showcases Emma Roberts, an AHS veteran, against a tempestuous backdrop. The dominating red letters “AHS” are prominent, with flowing tulle curtains painting a surrealistic vision against the stormy horizon. The standout feature is Roberts’ elongated black gloves, within which she cradles a glowing orb shadowing a spider.
Hold your loved ones close, hold your fears closer. AHS: Delicate Part One premieres 9.20 on FX. Stream on @hulu. #AHSDelicate #AHSFX pic.twitter.com/UrVHu4Va44
— AmericanHorrorStory (@AHSFX) August 29, 2023
Delving into the Theme of Motherhood
The presence of the spider inside the sphere, strategically held against Roberts’ midriff, is symbolic of the show’s exploration of pregnancy this season. Emma Roberts is slated to step into the shoes of Anna Alcott, the main character from Valentine’s gripping thriller. Alcott’s journey is fraught with fear as she grapples with the suspicion of a conspiracy to prevent her childbirth.
In an intriguing twist, promotional materials have also shown reality star Kim Kardashian, making her debut in the American Horror Story universe. Her portrayal of Siobhan Walsh, captured cradling an infant, might intertwine with Roberts’ narrative arc, suggesting a deeper connection to the pregnancy-centric theme.
Fans of horror cinema might detect shades of Rosemary’s Baby, a film that chronicles the paranoia of an expectant mother, Rosemary, who believes her neighbors have sinister designs on her unborn child. However, a significant deviation in AHS 12 seems to be Anna’s early cognizance of the looming threats, contrasting with Rosemary’s late realization.
Emma Roberts: A Stalwart in the AHS Realm
Emma Roberts has seamlessly transitioned between diverse roles in the “American Horror Story” cosmos. From her stint as the formidable Madison Montgomery in “Coven” to her portrayal of Maggie Esmerelda in “Freak Show,” Roberts has consistently enthralled viewers. With “Delicate,” fans eagerly await her triumphant return to the series after a four-year hiatus, anticipating the layers she’ll bring to Anna Alcott’s character.
As the date inches closer, one thing is certain: “American Horror Story: Delicate” promises a riveting blend of suspense, dread, and high drama, true to the legacy of Ryan Murphy’s visionary series.
