Netflix is set to unveil its chilling exploration of one of America’s most notorious killers with “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” promising a deep dive into Gein’s depraved mind. The series, the third installment in Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s “Monster” anthology, seeks to understand the forces that shaped Gein into the “Plainfield Ghoul,” offering a disturbing yet compelling look at the origins of a true-crime horror icon. This season promises a disturbing look at Gein’s descent into depravity.
Hunnam’s Transformation: Gein Unveiled
Charlie Hunnam’s transformation into Ed Gein is already generating significant buzz. Netflix has released the first images showcasing Hunnam’s dramatic metamorphosis into the infamous serial killer, setting the stage for what promises to be a disturbing and compelling portrayal. The series, titled “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” is slated to premiere on October 3, 2025, exclusively on Netflix. This installment follows the success of previous seasons focusing on Jeffrey Dahmer and the Menendez brothers, solidifying Netflix’s position as a leading platform for true-crime narratives. The series is created and executive produced by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan.
A-List Talent Tackles a Dark Subject
The casting of Hunnam, an A-list actor known for his roles in “Sons of Anarchy” and “Pacific Rim,” underscores Netflix’s commitment to delivering authentic and impactful true-crime productions. Alongside Hunnam, the series boasts a talented cast, including Laurie Metcalf as Augusta Gein, Tom Hollander as Alfred Hitchcock, and Olivia Williams as Alma Reville. This ensemble cast is poised to bring depth and nuance to the complex characters surrounding Ed Gein’s life and crimes.
The Ed Gein Story: Unearthing Horror’s Roots
“Monster: The Ed Gein Story” aims to delve into the chilling real-life story of Ed Gein, a grave robber and murderer whose gruesome acts profoundly influenced modern horror cinema. Gein’s crimes, which took place in the late 1940s and late 1950s in Plainfield, Wisconsin, involved exhuming corpses from local graveyards and using human remains to create various household and clothing items. He also confessed to the murders of two women, Mary Hogan and Bernice Worden. These disturbing acts served as inspiration for iconic horror films such as “Psycho,” “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” and “The Silence of the Lambs.”
From “The Original Monster” to “The Ed Gein Story”
The project was initially announced on September 16, 2024, under the title “The Original Monster” but was later retitled “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” in August 2025. This change reflects the series’ focused approach to exploring Gein’s specific story and its impact on American culture. The “first look” images and official release date were unveiled around August 27-28, 2025, generating significant anticipation among true-crime enthusiasts and horror fans alike.
Why Ed Gein? Examining the “Monster” Within
The decision to focus on Ed Gein’s story aligns with the series’ overarching goal of examining how “monsters aren’t born; they’re made… by us,” according to creators Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. The series aims to portray the psychological depths of Gein’s descent into depravity, driven by isolation, psychosis, and an intense obsession with his mother. By exploring these factors, the series seeks to understand the complex interplay of circumstances that led to Gein’s horrific acts.
True Crime’s Lasting Influence
Gein’s crimes are not only disturbing in their own right but also profoundly influential in shaping the landscape of modern horror. His actions provided the blueprint for countless fictional monsters, leaving an indelible mark on American horror culture. “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” aims to explore this legacy, examining how Gein’s real-life horrors continue to resonate in the world of fiction. The influence of Gein’s crimes on popular culture is undeniable, with numerous books, films, and documentaries exploring his story and its impact.
Netflix’s True-Crime Dominance: A Grisly Chapter
With “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” Netflix continues to solidify its prominence in the true-crime genre. The platform has achieved significant success with its previous installments, focusing on Jeffrey Dahmer and the Menendez brothers, demonstrating its ability to attract a large audience with its true-crime offerings. By tackling the story of Ed Gein, Netflix is taking on one of the most disturbing and influential cases in American criminal history.
Anticipation Builds for October 3, 2025
“Monster: The Ed Gein Story” is expected to be one of Netflix’s most talked-about releases of 2025. Charlie Hunnam’s remarkable transformation, the talented cast, and the chilling subject matter all contribute to the anticipation surrounding the series. As the premiere date approaches, true-crime enthusiasts and horror fans alike are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to delve into the dark and disturbing world of Ed Gein. The series promises to be a gripping and unsettling exploration of a man who became a monster, leaving an indelible mark on American culture.
Conclusion
“Monster: The Ed Gein Story” promises to be a compelling addition to Netflix’s true-crime anthology, offering a chilling exploration of one of America’s most notorious killers. With Charlie Hunnam’s transformative performance and a talented supporting cast, the series aims to delve into the psychological depths of Ed Gein’s depravity and examine the factors that led to his horrific acts. By exploring Gein’s story, Netflix seeks to understand the origins of a true-crime horror icon and the lasting impact of his crimes on American culture.
