Seth Gabel Breaks Down His Shocking 'AHS 13' Return As Jeffrey Dahmer

Ryan Murphy is bringing back familiar terrifying faces for the thirteenth season of *American Horror Story*, and fans just witnessed a major throwback. The sixth episode of *AHS 13* features the unexpected return of actor Seth Gabel, who reprised his role as infamous real-life serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer after nearly a decade away from the anthology franchise. Gabel first stepped into the sinister role during the fan-favorite "Devil's Night" episode in *American Horror Story: Hotel*. In that fifth season story, Evan Peters portrayed the bloodthirsty Hotel Cortez architect James March, who hosted an annual Halloween dinner party for the ghosts of notorious historical killers. Back then, spirits were strictly restricted to walking among the living on just one single night of the year. However, the rules of the supernatural universe have completely shifted in *AHS 13*. Undead killers are currently wandering the streets of New York City without any restriction. The chaotic supernatural outbreak stems from a dark plot orchestrated by Constance, played by returning franchise icon Jessica Lange, alongside her sinister accomplices and the mysterious figure known as Mr. Nas, played by Fedor Steer.

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Seth Gabel plays a fictionalized version of real-life serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer within the show's anthology universe. His original appearance showcased Dahmer attending March's ceremonial dinner where spirits gathered to feast and execute victims on Halloween night. Seeing Gabel return alongside Peters revives one of the show's most memorable ensemble horror concepts. The villainous scheme crafted by Constance and Mr. Nas brings Dahmer, March, and their fellow ghastly murder figures straight to the doorstep of the witches. The undead killer squad faces off in a violent confrontation against *Coven* Supreme Cordelia Goode, portrayed by Sarah Paulson. The dramatic showdown serves as a direct continuation of the original hotel gathering in an episode titled "The Return of Devil's Night."

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Ahead of the episode's debut, Gabel opened up about shooting the intense physical scenes opposite Paulson's powerful witch leader. The actor unpacked what it was like returning to set alongside Peters, discussing how the chaotic dynamic between the infamous historical figures unfolds during the high-stakes battle with the *Coven* leader. Murphy’s willingness to blend previous storylines across different seasons continues to serve as a core draw for the FX horror series. Bringing together elements from both *Hotel* and *Coven* allows the show to deliver fan-service moments while pushing the current season's New York narrative forward into even darker territory. The unexpected clash highlights how the series continues to connect its sprawling lore across multiple decades and iconic character arcs.