Sarah Paulson: From America's Sweetheart to Fearless Star

When a teenage Sarah Paulson was told she resembled Julia Roberts, she was inspired. The prospects of acting in romantic comedies and working with incredible directors led her to pursue her passion for acting. Though she knew she wouldn’t become an "internationally beloved superstar" like Roberts, she strived to carve her path.

Today, Paulson is a fan-favorite known for roles in “American Horror Story,” “American Crime Story,” and “Miss America,” among others. On December 2, she will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, following her Tony win for Broadway's “Appropriate.”

Reflecting on her career, Paulson recalls her “slim years” in the '90s-’00s when she was just managing the rent but yearned for more acting experience. Despite facing obstacles, she remained optimistic, looking forward to taking on larger challenges.

In 2011, her career took off with Emmy-nominated roles and a part in FX’s “American Horror Story.” The experience led her to push her boundaries and understand the impact of physically demanding roles on her health.

Coming back to Hollywood after a brief hiatus, Paulson reunites with Angela Bassett, Evan Peters, and other co-stars for “AHS 13.” Her resurgence in the industry also includes playing serial killer Aileen Wuornos in the upcoming season of “Monster.”

Paulson enjoys the complexity of playing real characters and immersing herself deep into their experiences. Her drive for human behavior exploration and propensity for challenging societal norms are evident in her roles.

Paulson is also playing a comedic villain in “All’s Fair,” marking an exciting turn in her acting career. Her portrayal of a ruthless lawyer shows her ability to push boundaries and deliver outlandish dialogues with finesse.

Despite receiving mixed reviews, Paulson finds joy in the process of creating and promoting a show and doesn't let external opinions affect her passion for acting.