AHS Season 13 Ends With Satan Trapped in Painting

American Horror Story concluded its 13th season on Thursday with a finale that seals the war between the Coven and Satan. In the episode, young Mr. Nas, portrayed by Paul Anthony Kelly, is defeated by his own son, Ben. The witch Ben stabs himself in the heart with a sword, turning to ash and ending the demon's reign. Young Mr. Nas is left trapped inside The Last Supper painting, a fate foreshadowed in the season premiere.

Kelly, who plays the central villain, spoke with The Hollywood Reporter about the conclusion. He admitted he did not know the character's ending when he signed on for the role. The production wrote the scripts as they filmed, with only about five episodes completed at the start of shooting. Kelly has not yet watched the finale, citing a busy schedule filming The Housemaid’s Secret and caring for his baby at home.

The finale revealed that Ben is the son of Satan. It also established that Constance Langdon and Fiona Goode, both played by Jessica Lange, are twin sisters and daughters of Satan and Sister Jude. During the episode, young Mr. Nas kills his medical specialist, Mr. Phibes, played by John Waters. He also kills the older version of himself. After Ben and Madison, played by Emma Roberts, have sex, Madison becomes pregnant and gives birth to a daughter. When the infant appears dead, young Mr. Nas revives the baby.

Mallory, played by Billie Lourd, and Cordelia, played by Sarah Paulson, convince Ben to sacrifice himself to save the world. Kelly said he was flabbergasted by Ben's decision. He joked that his character is unimpressed and disappointed in Ben's choices. Kelly explained that Satan's plan for Ben was to make him the second in command and lure him into the family business.

Kelly noted that his character shows mercy in the finale by saving a few people, including the newborn. He attributed Satan's near defeat to family ties, specifically that Cordelia is his grandchild. Regarding the fate of Mr. Phibes, Kelly confirmed the character is condemned to hell. Phibes gets to make his desired biker movie for eternity, a fate Kelly believes he enjoys.

Kelly described the final trap as a form of purgatory. Young Mr. Nas is stuck in the painting, overwatched by the Coven. Kelly said no one knows for certain if the character is truly dead, noting that season 18 could see his return. He added that he has not been told a definitive answer about the character's long-term future.

Filming the season was a new experience for Kelly, who is working in the horror genre for the first time. He highlighted a tango dance scene with Jessica Lange as a high point. He also enjoyed the practical effects, particularly the death scene involving the older Mr. Nas. Black goo sprayed on him during that scene in an accident, which he found fun.

Kelly said he spent a lot of time with Lange and became friends with Sarah Paulson during the production. He called the experience of working with legendary actors incredible. Before joining the franchise, Kelly was a fan of the early seasons and considers Freak Show his favorite installment. He expressed a desire to continue working in the horror genre.

The 14th season of American Horror Story has been renewed. Kelly said he would seriously consider returning if he gets the call. He acknowledged that creator Ryan Murphy often brings back characters and twists. Kelly remains open to the possibility, noting that he has no idea what is in store for the series next.