Buckle up, true crime enthusiasts – if the spine-tingling horrors of Monster: The Ed Gein Story left you glued to your screen (and maybe peeking through your fingers), you're in for another wild ride. This gripping Netflix anthology, crafted by the dynamic duo Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, has skyrocketed to the top of charts in over 60 nations, with fans devouring episodes in marathon sessions. But here's where it gets controversial: as we dive into tales of real-life monsters, are we glorifying villains or shedding light on the darkest corners of human nature? And this is the part most people miss – Netflix isn't slowing down. They've already got the next chilling installment lined up, shifting gears to spotlight its first female 'monster.' If you've binged through Ed Gein's twisted saga and are craving more, let's unpack everything we know about season four, tentatively titled Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story.
Building on the success of Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story – which sparked heated debates about sensationalizing serial killers – and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story, the Ed Gein episode truly rattled me to the bone. For those new to this, Ed Gein was a notorious American murderer and body snatcher in the 1950s, whose gruesome acts inspired iconic horror figures like Leatherface from The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. This third chapter elevates 'intense' to a whole new level; it's not exactly a feel-good binge, but its raw storytelling keeps you hooked from the opening scene to the credits – even if you're watching with one eye closed. I'm genuinely excited to see how Murphy and Brennan tackle Lizzie Borden's enigmatic story, a tale that's as captivating as it is puzzling.
So, what's Netflix's upcoming Monster series all about? Season four zooms in on the infamous Lizzie Borden, who stood trial – and was ultimately cleared – for the savage 1892 axe killings of her father and stepmother in Fall River, Massachusetts. Despite her acquittal, Lizzie faced relentless ostracism from her town and spent the rest of her days as an outcast, passing away in 1927 at 66. To help beginners grasp the intrigue, imagine a case that's baffled historians and detectives for over a century: no clear motive, no weapon found, and a community forever tainted by suspicion. This mystery has fueled a treasure trove of pop culture, from haunting children's rhymes (like the one about Lizzie taking an axe) to theatrical productions, novels, and screen adaptations. Think classics like the 1975 film The Legend of Lizzie Borden, the 2014 TV movie Lizzie Borden Took an Ax, and the more recent 2018 thriller Lizzie, featuring stellar performances by Chloë Sevigny – who also shone in the Menéndez episode – and Kristen Stewart. It's a testament to how one unsolved puzzle can inspire endless retellings, each adding layers to the legend.
Now, onto the stars stepping into the spotlight for Monster season four. Replacing Charlie Hunnam's commanding presence as the lead is Ella Beatty, who previously collaborated with Ryan Murphy on Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. Alongside her, Vicky Krieps – fresh from her role in Monster: The Ed Gein Story and acclaimed films like Phantom Thread and Corsage – portrays Bridget Sullivan, the Bordens' devoted live-in maid. Rebecca Hall, known for her powerful work in Christine and Passing, takes on the part of Lizzie's stepmother, Abby Borden. Completing the ensemble are Billie Lourd, bringing her American Horror Story flair to Lizzie's elder sister Emma, and Jessica Barden, who dazzled in The End of the F*ing World and Dune: Prophecy, playing Lizzie's theatrical pal, Nance O'Neill. This cast promises a blend of fresh talent and familiar faces, ensuring the drama feels both intimate and explosive.
As for when we can expect the next season of Monster to drop? Filming is in full swing right now, with Max Winkler – who helmed episodes of the Menéndez story and the eerie Grotesquerie – directing the premiere. Netflix hasn't pinned down an official launch date yet, but stay tuned; these anthology gems have a knack for dropping when you least expect it.
But let's pause and ponder: in an era where true crime dominates our screens, does retelling stories like Lizzie Borden's help us understand the psychology of crime, or does it risk sensationalizing tragedy for entertainment? Some argue it's educational, offering insights into historical injustices and mental health, while others worry it desensitizes us to real suffering. What do you think – is this series a necessary exploration of the human psyche, or a step too far into glorifying the grotesque? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if you're team 'enlightening' or 'exploitative'!
