Sarah Paulson Reveals Her Biggest Regret in American Horror Story

Sarah Paulson has built a reputation as one of the most talented actors in the industry, known for her powerful performances and unwavering dedication. Yet, even with a career full of standout roles, Paulson has admitted that not every project has been fulfilling. In a rare moment of honesty, she opened up about her dissatisfaction with a role that many fans and critics praised.

Ryan Murphy Collaborations and Career Milestones

Paulson’s partnership with creator Ryan Murphy has been a defining part of her career. She first appeared in a minor role on Nip/Tuck, but it was her recurring presence in the anthology series American Horror Story that made her a Murphy mainstay. Each season brought new characters and storylines, allowing Paulson to showcase her range and versatility.

Her career reached new heights when she portrayed Marcia Clark in American Crime Story: The People vs. O.J. Simpson. The miniseries revisited the infamous trial, offering fresh perspectives on the people involved. Paulson’s portrayal of the lead prosecutor earned her widespread acclaim and her first Primetime Emmy Award, cementing her status as a top-tier performer.

Disappointment with Roanoke

Despite her success, Paulson found herself disillusioned after returning to American Horror Story for the Roanoke season. She reflected on the experience, saying,

“I just don’t care about this season at all. I know people will get mad at me for saying it. To me, this was post-having played Marcia. It was what I went to do right after finishing Marcia and I was so underwhelmed by the whole experience.”

The transition from the empowering role of Marcia Clark to Roanoke left her feeling let down, and she didn’t shy away from expressing her disappointment.

Paulson’s frustration is understandable. The show’s ever-changing continuity and the challenge of playing new characters each season can be disorienting, even for seasoned actors. While her earlier performances in Murder House and Asylum were met with enthusiasm, Roanoke failed to resonate in the same way, both for her and for many viewers.

Loyalty Amid Creative Challenges

Even after voicing her dissatisfaction, Paulson has remained loyal to Murphy’s projects. She continued to appear in later seasons of American Horror Story, including Cult, and took on a memorable role in the third season of American Crime Story: Impeachment. Her portrayal of Linda Tripp in the retelling of the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal was widely recognized for its depth and complexity.

Murphy’s shows have continued to spark debate, especially with new series like Monster, which has faced criticism for its approach to true crime. Still, Paulson remains a key figure in his creative circle, appearing in projects like Feud: Bette and Joan and Ratched. Their ongoing collaboration suggests that, despite creative ups and downs, their professional bond endures.