American Horror Story: 10 Most Controversial Moments

There have been many more graphic scenes in AHS, more violent and more blood splattered too. But none were quite as unsettling as RJ’s death by nail gun in Cult.

The scene unfolds slowly; Kai never dehumanised RJ even as he kills him, and this cold, calculating nature is matched perfectly by the choice of weapon. It kills RJ slow, and we see the light slip away from his eyes. In other series, there might have been heads exploding or blood gushing over the assailants. But Cult’s realism is fiercely adhered to for all to see. All those whose stomachs didn’t force them to turn off, that is.

The fact everyone must participate, with some apathetic, some empowered and some so reluctant made this so uncomfortable. It was controversial because it could happen. It’s unlikely we’ll experience witches or demons or spirits, but someone in power convincing a group to turn on the weakest member? Disturbingly accurate.

RJ stays alive through most of the ordeal to, as we first see what Kai is capable of. A scene that made so many viewers change the channel is highly controversial, but it’s brilliantly acted, written, and shot.