Jessica Lange Criticized FX Over Working Conditions
The actress shared that American Horror Story cast members had to drive themselves home late at night during production.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Television
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Actress Jessica Lange has criticized FX for failing to provide transportation for American Horror Story cast members during production. Lange revealed that actors were often required to drive themselves home following filming sessions that concluded in the early morning hours.
Why it matters
The disclosure highlights concerns regarding safety and standard industry practices for actor transport on high-profile television sets. The claims provide insight into the logistical challenges faced by performers working on location in cities like New Orleans.
Jessica Lange, who is 77 years old, returned to the American Horror Story cast for season 13 and reprised four distinct past roles. The series previously featured the actress during the 2014-2015 period for Freak Show.
The players
Jessica Lange
She is an acclaimed actress who has participated in multiple seasons of the American Horror Story television franchise.
FX
This is a television network that produces and airs the American Horror Story series.
Sarah Paulson
She is a professional actress who confirmed the reported lack of provided transportation for actors during production.
The details
Lange and co-star Sarah Paulson confirmed that cast members frequently finished filming at 4:00 or 5:00 in the morning without provided transportation. Consequently, actors had to drive themselves from the set and park on streets in the French Quarter before walking home.
Timeline
Lange starred in American Horror Story Freak Show during 2014-2015.
Lange denied returning to American Horror Story in February 2025.
Lange discussed season 13 conditions on television in September 2026.
Lange discussed production issues at PaleyFest in October 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This revelation follows a pattern set by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike negotiations regarding working conditions. The industry continues to face scrutiny over the logistical demands placed on performers during intensive, long-form television production schedules.
These comments may influence how fans perceive the behind-the-scenes realities of long-running franchise productions. Viewers can monitor updates on future American Horror Story casting or production standards to see if operational changes occur.
The takeaway
Lange's public statements serve as a reminder of the personal challenges performers navigate behind the scenes of major network projects. Understanding these working conditions offers a broader perspective on the physical demands of high-budget television acting.
Further reading
For more on the current climate of industry labor discussions, visit our Television section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EW.
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Should television networks be required to provide transportation for actors working late-night production shifts?
