American Horror Story Season 4 Guy With Short Arms
American Horror Story is an anthology horror television series that has been airing since 2011. Each season, the show features a new storyline, setting, and cast of characters, making it a favorite among horror fans. The fourth season, titled "Freak Show," premiered in 2014 and introduced viewers to a cast of characters that included a "Guy With Short Arms."
Who is the Guy With Short Arms?
The "Guy With Short Arms" is a character played by Mat Fraser in American Horror Story: Freak Show. His real name is Paul, but he is often referred to as "Seal Boy" or "The Seal." Paul was born with phocomelia, a rare congenital disorder that caused his arms to be shorter than normal and his hands to be flipper-like. In the show, Paul is part of the freak show that is run by Elsa Mars (played by Jessica Lange).
Throughout the season, Paul struggles with his identity as a "freak" and his desire to be accepted by society. He eventually becomes involved in a love triangle with fellow freaks Amazon Eve (played by Erika Ervin) and Penny (played by Grace Gummer).
The Representation of Disability in American Horror Story
American Horror Story has been both praised and criticized for its representation of disability. On one hand, the show features disabled actors like Mat Fraser and Erika Ervin in prominent roles, which is a positive step towards more representation of disabled people in media. However, the show has also been criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about disability and exploiting the bodies of disabled performers for shock value.
In the case of Paul, some viewers felt that his storyline perpetuated the trope of the disabled character who is only able to find love with other disabled characters. Others felt that his storyline was empowering and showed a disabled character who was complex and multidimensional.
Conclusion
The "Guy With Short Arms" is a memorable character from American Horror Story: Freak Show. While the show's representation of disability has been controversial, the inclusion of disabled actors in prominent roles is a positive step towards more representation of disabled people in media. Whether you love or hate the show's portrayal of disability, there is no denying that the "Guy With Short Arms" is a unique and memorable character that has left an impression on viewers.