While 'American Horror Story: Asylum' is barely cold in the ground, already the casting continues to heat up for the as-yet-unsubtitled 'American Horror Story' Season 3. Previously we've heard about a number of returning franchise players signing on for the third season of Ryan Murphy's FX horror drama, and some that likely wouldn't, but now we have our first new name. Kathy Bates will reportedly play the villain to series lead Jessica Lange's character, but what new 'Horror' awaits us this time?

'American Horror Story' follow-up 'Asylum' borrowed Oscar-nominee James Cromwell to inject a bit of menace into the season, and now it seems 'American Horror Story' season 3 has an Oscar-winning and distinguished 'Misery' all its own. TVLine is reporting that 'Harry's Law' and Stephen King's 'Misery' star Kathy Bates will soon finalize a deal to take a majorly villainous role in 'American Horror Story' season 3, acting as a foil to series star Jessica Lange's character.

Details of the new season from Ryan Murphy are naturally kept well under wraps, but sources report Bates would play Lange's character's best friend, albeit one "who turns into her enemy." Whatever that means. So far, ‘American Horror Story’ season 3 has already recruited franchise regulars Jessica Lange, Lily Rabe, Taissa Farmiga, Frances Conroy, Evan Peters and Sarah Paulson, with the potential for others going forward.

Murphy has revealed only select details of the FX drama’s third season, including that season 3 would have a love story focus akin to the one between Violet and Tate in season 1. The season will be set in the modern day across several cities, occasionally dipping back into the past as the narrative requires. Murphy also previewed that Peters’ role will likely prove that of a “sobbing psychopath” once again, while Jessica Lange would be a “glamour cat leading lady” of sorts.

Well, what say you? Do you think Kathy Bates will bring a palpable 'Misery' to 'American Horror Story' season 3? What would you like to see the new season tackle, and what big stars might join in?

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