Exploring Lizzie Borden’s story in Monster Season 4

The buzz around the fourth season of Netflix’s anthology series “Monster” is hard to ignore, especially with its fascinating focus on the infamous Lizzie Borden. This true crime series is continuing its exploration of scandalous narratives, and it has just landed a standout actor for its lead role.

Ella Beatty will step into the shoes of Lizzie Borden, a character whose notorious life story has intrigued and horrified audiences for more than a century. She’ll be joined by Rebecca Hall, who will portray Lizzie’s stepmother, Abby Borden, and Vicky Krieps, taking on the role of Bridget Sullivan, the maid in the Borden household.

Who Was Lizzie Borden?

To understand the hype, let’s take a step back. Lizzie Borden lived in Massachusetts during the late 19th century, a time when strict societal norms ruled and public fascination with crime was on the rise. In 1892, she became the center of one of America’s most notorious murder cases, accused of brutally killing her father and stepmother with an axe in their own home.

Although she was acquitted, the gruesome details of the murders and the sensational trial captivated the nation, etching her name into American folklore. How many other figures can say they’ve inspired endless adaptations across various media, from television shows to films like “The Lizzie Borden Chronicles” and the movie “Lizzie,” which featured stars like Christina Ricci and Chloë Sevigny?

The All-Star Cast

Now, let’s talk about the cast. Ella Beatty’s involvement is particularly exciting, marking her second collaboration with co-creator Ryan Murphy. She made a splash in “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” and is set to appear in an upcoming A24 film.

Talk about climbing the ranks! Meanwhile, Rebecca Hall is no stranger to impressive performances. With accolades like a BAFTA TV Award and multiple nominations under her belt, she’s ready to bring depth to Abby Borden. Her recent roles in high-profile projects, including Murphy’s upcoming FX series “The Beauty,” further cement her reputation as a powerhouse actress.

And we can’t forget about Vicky Krieps. Known for her mesmerizing performances in “The Phantom Thread” and “Corsage,” she’s stepping into the spotlight for Season 3 of “Monster.” Although her primary focus has been film, her transition to television adds a fresh perspective, promising to enhance the dynamics of the Borden household. Each cast member brings a wealth of experience to the table, building anticipation among fans of the genre.

The Legacy of “Monster”

Since its debut in 2022, “Monster” has captured audiences with its compelling storytelling and powerful performances. The first season, which explored the life of notorious criminal Jeffrey Dahmer, earned accolades, including a Golden Globe for Evan Peters and an Emmy for Niecey Nash. It’s no wonder the series has quickly become a staple of Netflix’s original programming, with Season 2 diving into the chilling saga of the Menendez brothers. As the fourth season approaches, the show’s ability to blend historical narrative with modern storytelling remains a key to its success, drawing viewers into the complexities of human nature and the dark corners that can lurk within.