‘American Horror Story’s’ Dylan McDermott Joins CBS Pilot, No Season 3 Appearance?

Pilot season in TV land can be an awfully uncertain time, as even the highest-profile of star attachments to upcoming pilots make no guarantee of a network picking them up to series, meaning most announcements are to be taken with a grain of salt. One in particular that caught our eye, however, is that of CBS' Jerry Bruckheimer-produced, Toni Collette-starring drama 'Hostages,' which today adds 'American Horror Story' seasons 1 and 2 star Dylan McDermott in the male lead. Might 'Hostages' prevent McDermott from appearing in 'American Horror Story' season 3?

With stars everywhere attaching themselves to new pilot projects, one intriguing development arrives to day as Dylan McDermott signs on to join CBS pilot 'Hostages,' which follows a successful Washington DC surgeon selected to operate on the President of the United States, who becomes embroiled in a political conspiracy when her family is taken hostage. Featuring Toni Collette in the lead role, McDermott will portray righteous FBI agent Duncan, given a "surprise" role within the conspiracy.

More interesting than the pilot news, however, is that of McDermott's ongoing role in 'American Horror Story,' the third season of which has yet to confirm any potential involvement with the star. McDermott headlined the first season of the Ryan Murphy FX thriller, and went on to play a prominent role in second round 'Asylum,' despite only being announced the day of its season premiere.

Should CBS opt to pick up 'Hostages,' McDermott's potential involvement in 'American Horror Story' season 3 would likely prove problematic, necessitating special permission from CBS even if the schedule allowed for an appearance. 'Hostages' is written and directed by Jeffrey Nachmanoff ('Homeland') and executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Jonathan Littman, Jeffrey Nachmanoff, Omri Givon, Rotem Shamir and Chayim Sharir.

Well, what say you? Would you prefer Dylan McDermott keep available for a potential role in 'American Horror Story' season 3, rather than join 'Hostages'? What pilots are you most looking forward to?