Ariana Grande leaves 'American Horror Story' fans disappointed

Ariana Grande has been forced to pull out of the upcoming season of American Horror Story after a clash with her packed touring schedule.

The 33-year-old pop superstar had been announced by creator Ryan Murphy as one of the big additions to the cast for the show's highly anticipated 13th season. 

However, reports now claim Ariana can no longer take part because her Eternal Sunshine world tour has left no room in her diary for filming.

Her exit will come as a disappointment for fans, especially as she had been due to star alongside American Horror Story favourites Sarah Paulson, Emma Roberts and Gabourey Sidibe, who have already been spotted filming scenes in New York. 

Returning cast members are also said to include Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Billie Lourd, Leslie Grossman and Jessica Lange.

The role would have marked another major acting project for the songstress, who has increasingly shifted her focus towards the screen in recent years. 

Following her turn as Glinda in the Wicked films, she is also set to appear alongside Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in Focker-in-Law.

Speaking previously about her career, she admitted acting has become her biggest creative passion. 

"I really am enjoying acting right now," she said. 

"Whether it's movies or being on stage or a little something here and there, I think that's currently what I'm most inspired by."

She reassured fans she has no plans to leave music behind, adding, "I'll still sing, I promise." 

Ariana explained that she now sees acting and music as complementary, saying she is determined to strike the right balance between both.

Although she won't be returning to Ryan Murphy's horror universe this time, the pair have worked together before on the cult comedy-horror series Scream Queens. 

Meanwhile, Side to Side hitmaker remains focused on her Eternal Sunshine tour, which wraps up with a 10-night residency at London's O2 Arena from August 15 to September 1.

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