Kathy Bates to Square Off Against Jessica Lange in Season Three of American Horror Story

Oscar winner and Tony nominee Kathy Bates has signed on to join American Horror Story for its upcoming third season. Bates will play the best friend of Jessica Lange's new character, who eventually becomes her enemy, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Also returning to the spooky FX series are Sarah Paulson, Lily Rabe, Evan Peters, Frances Conroy and Taissa Farmiga.

Series creator Ryan Murphy previously revealed that next season of AHS will be set in the present day, with a storyline spread over several cities. The third season will focus on "female power," and the mysterious central figure (comparable to past characters Rubber Man and Bloody Face) will also be a woman. "What season three is about is more historical in nature. I'm also interested in getting into a horror romance," Murphy said in a statement.

Bates earned a Tony nomination for her role as Jessie Cates in 'Night Mother. Her other Broadway credits inlcude Come Back to the 5 & Dime Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean, Fifth of July and Goodbye Fidel. Bates earned an Oscar for her role as Annie Wilkes in Misery. Her other TV and film credits include Dolores Claiborne, Titanic, Primary Colors, About Schmidt, Six Feet Under and Harry's Law.