If you used to think American Horror Story was scary, just wait until you read about the real people who inspired some of the show’s most terrifying scenes.
Ryan Murphy modeled his conspiracies after the crimes of the most notorious serial killers and haunted sites in the United States, including the Hotel Cecil in Los Angeles. Some are obvious as the characters and locations are literally given the same names as their inspiration, while others require a little more research or a quick scrolling through Wikipedia.
Most obvious among the real characters is Madame Dolphins LaLaurie. The serial killer was played by Kathy Bates in the show’s third season and has become one of the actress’ most memorable roles to date. Fans were obsessed with Bates’ comical but somber portrayal of the celebrity and slave owner whose home in New Orleans is now a museum.
Other killers who had their moment in the spotlight include Richard Ramirez (aka the Night Stalker), Aileen Wuornos, John Wayne Gacy and Jeffrey Dahmer.
