Sarah Paulson and Cody Fern reunite for new film after 'AHS' connection

Sarah Paulson and Cody Fern reunite for 'Closing Night' after first bonding on 'American Horror Story' season eight

Sarah Paulson and Cody Fern are teaming up for Closing Night, marking their first feature film together after developing a close professional bond while working on American Horror Story.

The actors first met during American Horror Story: Apocalypse, the eighth season of Ryan Murphy’s anthology series. Paulson played Wilhemina Venable, while Fern portrayed the Antichrist, Michael Langdon.

Speaking at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival, Paulson recalled their first scene together and described their early dynamic as “two tigers in a cage.” She said she quickly recognised Fern as an actor who was present, inventive and truthful, making their collaboration particularly exciting.

Paulson said the pair developed what she called an “acting platonic love affair” that eventually led to their work together on Closing Night.

Fern, who is making his feature directorial debut with the film, said he knew after working with Paulson on American Horror Story that he wanted to collaborate with her again. He described directing Paulson as a major privilege and praised her range as an actress.

Closing Night, written by Fern and Devon Bostick, follows a movie star who invites her estranged family to the opening night of her Broadway play. Paulson leads the cast alongside Naomi Watts and Odessa A’zion.

The film had its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival.

Paulson and Fern have previously appeared together in multiple seasons of American Horror Story, including Apocalypse and Double Feature. They have also both worked across Ryan Murphy’s American Crime Story franchise.

Paulson said she was moved by the opportunity to star in Fern’s directorial debut, while also feeling pressure to meet the expectations of the filmmaker and the role. Closing Night does not yet have a release date.