Orlando Jones is stepping into the iconic role of Papa Legba in the latest season of *American Horror Story: 13*, a character previously portrayed by the late Lance Reddick. Reddick, who passed away in 2023, left a significant mark on the series, and Jones’s casting has sparked discussions about honoring that legacy while bringing his own interpretation to the character. Jones expressed his initial hesitation about taking on the role, acknowledging the deep friendship he shared with Reddick, as he recounted in an interview with TheWrap.
Honoring a Legacy
When approached by his agent for the audition, Jones was uncertain. “I was like, ‘OK, but I’m not really sure,’” he recalled, reflecting on the weight of stepping into a role that Reddick had made memorable. The audition process involved material originally crafted for Reddick, as the AHS team was still finalizing the script for the season. Ultimately, Jones received the call confirming his casting while he was working on another project, a moment he described as surreal.
Jones and Reddick had previously discussed the role at the SCAD aTVfest in 2019, highlighting their shared experiences in the industry. Reddick’s portrayal of Papa Legba, characterized by his distinctive white face paint and skull-covered hat, resonated with audiences, infusing the character with a contemplative energy that transcended the show’s supernatural elements.
A New Interpretation
While Reddick’s Papa Legba was portrayed as a figure above the fray of witchcraft, Jones’s interpretation promises to be more dynamic. He noted that his version of the character is “far more furious,” particularly in response to the resurrection of Fiona Goode, played by Jessica Lange. “When I read the pages, I was like, ‘This guy can’t be the same. He is hot from the word go,’” Jones explained, emphasizing the emotional depth he aims to bring to the role.
Additionally, Jones has made a conscious effort to give his Papa Legba a more authentic Haitian accent, striving for a portrayal that resonates with cultural authenticity. “I wanted to try and create a really memorable Haitian deity,” he stated, underscoring his commitment to honoring the character’s roots while making it accessible to viewers.
Career Evolution
This marks Jones’s first collaboration with Ryan Murphy, although he has a long history with FX, having hosted The Orlando Jones Show in 2003. His career has spanned various genres, from comedy to drama, and he has consistently sought to tell diverse stories. “I stopped doing comedies a decade ago,” he noted, reflecting on his desire to pivot and explore different narratives. “I wanted a career where I was going to be able to tell different types of stories in different genres.”
Jones’s versatility has allowed him to remain relevant in an industry where many of his contemporaries have faded from the spotlight. His approach to acting emphasizes the importance of storytelling over traditional notions of stardom.
Looking Ahead
American Horror Story: 13 airs new episodes on Thursdays on FX and streams the following day on Hulu. As Jones takes on the mantle of Papa Legba, fans can anticipate a fresh yet respectful interpretation of a character that has become a staple in the AHS universe. The series continues to explore complex themes through its unique blend of horror and drama, and Jones’s performance is poised to add a new layer to this ongoing narrative.
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