Netflix has officially revealed the first look at the next chapter of Ryan Murphy’s popular Monster anthology series, and this time it focuses on one of America’s most famous unsolved murder cases. Titled Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, the eight episode series will premiere on September 17 and stars Ella Beatty as Lizzie Borden, the woman who became one of the most talked about figures in American crime history. The newly released images show Beatty covered in blood, giving viewers an early glimpse of the dark and emotional story that the series plans to explore.
Ella Beatty, the daughter of Hollywood stars Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, is no stranger to Ryan Murphy’s productions. She previously appeared in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. Speaking about her new role, Beatty said she is excited for audiences to see a different side of Lizzie Borden’s story. She described the character as complicated and fascinating, adding that the series explores themes such as female anger, repression, and the pressure placed on women. According to Beatty, these themes still feel relevant today, making the story more than just another true crime drama.
The series also features an impressive supporting cast. Charlie Hunnam, who received an Emmy nomination for playing Ed Gein in the previous season of Monster, takes on the role of Andrew Borden, Lizzie’s wealthy father. Rebecca Hall plays Abby Borden, Andrew’s second wife. In 1892, both Andrew and Abby were brutally killed with an axe inside their home in Fall River, Massachusetts. Lizzie was accused of murdering them, but she insisted that she had been outside near the barn and discovered her father’s body only after returning to the house.
According to Netflix, the series presents a dramatic interpretation of the events surrounding the murders. The official story follows Lizzie and the family’s maid, Bridget Sullivan, as they struggle under a strict and unhappy household. The series imagines how years of emotional pain, control, and frustration may have shaped the events that followed. It explores ideas of power, revenge, and freedom while examining how Lizzie Borden became one of the most famous names in American criminal history.
The cast also includes Vicky Krieps as Bridget Sullivan, Billie Lourd as Lizzie’s older sister Emma Borden, and Jessica Barden as actress Nance O’Neil, who was known to have a close friendship with Lizzie. Another exciting addition is Sarah Paulson, who will appear as notorious serial killer Aileen Wuornos in a separate storyline.
In real life, Lizzie Borden was formally charged with the murders of her father and stepmother in 1892. Her trial attracted nationwide attention, but she was acquitted in 1893 due to a lack of evidence. No one else was ever charged for the killings, leaving the case unsolved. Over the years, the mystery has inspired countless books, films, and television shows. With its strong cast and focus on the psychological side of the story, Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story aims to revisit one of history’s most debated true crime cases for a new generation of viewers.