Monster Series Revives Ed Gein’s Dark Legacy on Netflix

LOS ANGELES, CA — The new Netflix series, Monster: The Ed Gein Story, brings renewed interest to the life and crimes of Ed Gein, often referred to as the Butcher of Plainfield. This series, produced by Ryan Murphy, chronicles Gein’s gruesome acts that shocked the world when he was arrested in 1957.

Gein became notorious for his horrific crimes, which included grave robbing and the murder of two women. The chilling revelations that emerged from his farmhouse, such as furniture made from human remains, sparked widespread media coverage. Newspapers like The Milwaukee Journal published alarming headlines that captured the public’s horror, with reports including ‘Murder Farm Horror Grows.’

Gein’s legacy continues to haunt popular culture, inspiring iconic films like Psycho and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. With Monster, Murphy aims to delve into the psychological aspects of Gein’s life, shedding light on how his dark legacy influenced other serial killers.

In the first episode, audiences are introduced to Jerome Henry ‘Jerry’ Brudos, also known as the ‘Shoe Fetish Slayer.’ Brudos, played by actor Happy Anderson, is another real-life murderer whose chilling crimes in the late 1960s resonate with Gein’s narrative. The series depicts a fictional interaction between Brudos and FBI agents investigating another serial killer.

The dramatic retelling also explores the complex dynamics of Gein’s relationships, particularly with a woman named Adeline Watkins. While the show suggests a deep connection between Gein and Watkins, historical accounts reveal that their romance may have been exaggerated. Watkins initially described Gein as ‘good and kind,’ yet later recanted their relationship timeline, admitting they were only briefly romantically involved.

Monster aims to challenge viewers’ perceptions of Gein’s influence, exploring how his crimes left a lasting mark on society. In an interview, co-creator Ryan Murphy stated, ‘There were many dark creatures in our world, influenced and obsessed with Ed for all the wrong reasons.’

As the series unfolds, it invites audiences to question the reality of Gein’s experiences and relationships, blurring the line between fact and fiction. The show serves as a stark reminder of the horrors tied to Ed Gein’s life and the enduring fascination with his story.