“Kathy Bates is running the Hotel,” tweeted “American Horror Story” creator Ryan Murphy on Wednesday afternoon.

To which the only proper response is, “Of course she is.” Can you imagine anyone else playing the proprietress of an evil inn? We can’t.

Bates has been a force to be reckoned with on FX’s “American Horror Story” since she first appeared in season three’s “Coven” arc. Long before that, though, she redefined the concept of hospitality in Misery and broke our hearts in Dolores Claiborne as a stoic, misunderstood domestic with a steel will and devoted heart.  For Ryan and his co-creator Brad Falchuk, pop culture students to the core, she’s the best and obvious choice.

Plus, she’s clearly having a wonderful time on this show. Bates played Ethel Darling, the Bearded Lady, in the most recent “Freak Show” installment of “American Horror Story,” and she snagged an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie for her portrayal of Madame Delphine LaLaurie in “Coven.” She’s the latest addition to “Hotel’s” growing guest roster, which currently includes Matt Bomer, Lady Gaga, and Cheyenne Jackson, as well as fellow “American Horror Story” alumni Chloë Sevigny and Wes Bentley.

No word yet on whether other stars from previous installments, including (but not limited to) Angela Bassett, Denis O’Hare, Evan Peters,  Danny Huston, Lily Rabe, Taissa Farmiga and Frances Conroy, are expected to check in to “American Horror Story: Hotel.“*

Jessica Lange, who starred in every season of the series since its debut, has confirmed that she will not be back.

Production on “American Horror Story: Hotel” begins this summer in Los Angeles. The 13-episode fifth installment is set for an October premiere on FX.

*UPDATE:  As of Monday, April 13, Sarah Paulson is confirmed to be participating in “American Horror Story: Hotel.”