The Man Behind the Mask: Who Plays Richard Nixon in American Horror Story: Double Feature? American Horror Story is known for its star-studded cast and shocking storylines. Season 10\, aptly titled "Double Feature\," brought a double dose of horror with the two parts\, "Red Tide" and "Death Valley." While the season featured numerous intriguing characters\, one stood out for its historical significance and unexpected appearance: Richard Nixon. But who plays the former President in this chilling rendition of American Horror Story? The answer is Neal McDonough. Known for his roles in shows like "Desperate Housewives" and "Suits\," McDonough takes on the iconic role of Richard Nixon in the "Death Valley" portion of "Double Feature." Richard Nixon: From President to Monster? The "Death Valley" segment of American Horror Story dives into the chilling realm of alien encounters and government conspiracies. The story unfolds in a remote desert town\, where a group of people are hunted by alien creatures who seem to be mimicking human beings. In this bizarre setting\, Richard Nixon\, now a resurrected ghost\, emerges as a key player in the unfolding chaos. He acts as a guide for the protagonists\, revealing the truth about the alien invasion and the government's role in covering it up. McDonough's portrayal of Nixon is both unsettling and compelling. He captures the former president's authoritative demeanor and enigmatic personality\, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative. Beyond the Mask: Neal McDonough's Performance McDonough brings his considerable acting talent to the role of Nixon. He masterfully embodies the president's iconic mannerisms\, including his voice\, gait\, and even his infamous "five o'clock shadow." However\, McDonough also goes beyond the surface\, injecting a chillingly sinister undertone into the character. This duality is crucial to the "Death Valley" storyline. It raises questions about the true nature of power and the potential for even the most respected figures to become corrupted by fear\, ambition\, or even extraterrestrial influence. American Horror Story: Double Feature – A Season of Twists and Turns "Double Feature" was met with mixed reactions from fans. While some praised the season's ambitious storytelling and innovative themes\, others found the overarching narratives to be confusing and disjointed. However\, the "Death Valley" portion\, with its unexpected appearance of Richard Nixon and its exploration of government conspiracies\, has sparked widespread discussion and analysis. McDonough's portrayal of the former president adds a compelling layer to the story\, challenging viewers to confront their own preconceptions about history\, power\, and the nature of reality itself. FAQs about Richard Nixon in American Horror Story: Double Feature Q: Is Neal McDonough the only actor who has played Richard Nixon in American Horror Story? A: No. In the "Red Tide" portion of "Double Feature\," Richard Nixon appears in a historical context\, played by a different actor\, though the actor's identity is not publicly known. Q: What is the significance of Richard Nixon's role in "Death Valley"? A: Nixon's role is key to understanding the history of the alien invasion and the government's involvement in suppressing the truth. He is a key figure in the unfolding narrative\, guiding the protagonists and revealing the true nature of the threat. Q: Why do you think the creators chose Richard Nixon as a character in American Horror Story? A: Nixon's historical significance and the controversies surrounding his presidency make him an interesting and compelling figure to explore in a story about government conspiracies and alien encounters. His legacy of power\, deceit\, and manipulation lends itself perfectly to the themes of the "Death Valley" portion. Q: Does Neal McDonough's portrayal of Richard Nixon align with historical accounts? A: While McDonough's performance is compelling and captures Nixon's mannerisms\, it is important to remember that the character in "Death Valley" is a fictionalized version of the real-life president. The story incorporates elements of historical fact and speculation\, creating a fictionalized account of the events. Conclusion: A Haunting Performance in a Season of Horror American Horror Story: Double Feature takes viewers on a journey through the darkest corners of human nature and the potential for chaos lurking in the shadows. The inclusion of Richard Nixon\, played by Neal McDonough\, adds another layer of complexity and intrigue to the story\, reminding us that even the most powerful figures can be consumed by fear and uncertainty. McDonough's performance is captivating and adds a chilling dimension to the season's overarching narrative\, reminding us that truth is often stranger than fiction.