Production has begun in Los Angeles for Season 4 of Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Emmy-winning Netflix anthology Monster. The series continues its streak of shocking true-crime stories that have captivated global audiences.
Following the success of Monster: The Ed Gein Story, which topped Netflix’s global charts, the franchise now turns to a new subject — Lizzie Borden. She becomes the series’ first female “monster.” Ella Beatty, who starred in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, takes on the role.
Netflix shared a behind-the-scenes photo showing Beatty with Charlie Hunnam, who played Ed Gein in Season 3. The image marks a symbolic handoff between the two stories.
The True Story Behind Lizzie Borden’s Case
Unlike Dahmer, the Menendez brothers, or Ed Gein, Lizzie Borden was found not guilty of her alleged crimes. She was accused of killing her father, Andrew Borden, and her stepmother, Abby Gray, with an axe on August 4, 1892.
Her trial became one of the most sensational in American history. Despite giving contradictory testimony, Lizzie was acquitted in 1893. Afterward, she and her sister Emma lived together in Fall River, Massachusetts, until their deaths in 1927.
The mystery of who truly committed the murders continues to fascinate historians and true-crime fans. Ryan Murphy’s version will explore that mystery through his signature mix of psychological drama and social commentary.
Ella Beatty Leads an All-Star Cast as Lizzie Borden
Murphy is known for working with familiar faces, and this season is no exception. Ella Beatty leads the cast as Lizzie, bringing both intensity and vulnerability to the role.
She is joined by a stellar lineup:
- Vicky Krieps (Phantom Thread, Corsage) as Bridget Sullivan, the Irish maid who witnessed key moments.
- Rebecca Hall (Christine, Passing) as stepmother Abby Borden.
- Billie Lourd (American Horror Story, The Last Showgirl) as Emma Borden.
- Jessica Barden (The End of the F**ing World, Dune: Prophecy*) as Nance O’Neill, Lizzie’s close friend.
- Charlie Hunnam returns as Andrew Borden, following his chilling portrayal of Ed Gein.
The first episode will be directed by Max Winkler, known for Monster: The Ed Gein Story and Flower.
Netflix’s Expanding Monster Universe
The Monster anthology has become one of Netflix’s biggest successes. The first season, Dahmer: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, premiered in September 2022 and earned 13 Emmy nominations. It surpassed one billion viewing hours in just two months.
Season 2, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, debuted in 2024 and received 11 Emmy nods. Both seasons dominated Netflix’s top 10 charts.
Season 4 joins a growing list of major Netflix productions filmed in Los Angeles, including Beef Season 2, The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4, and Nobody Wants This Season 2. The city continues to be a favorite backdrop for Murphy’s cinematic storytelling.
When Will Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story Be Released?
Netflix has not confirmed a release date yet. Since production is just beginning, the series is expected to arrive in fall 2026.
Previous Monster installments were released between late September and early October, aligning with Netflix’s Halloween lineup. Based on this pattern, fans can expect another chilling fall premiere.
With Ella Beatty’s powerful performance and Murphy’s signature storytelling, Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story is shaping up to be another Netflix hit. The story’s mix of mystery, fame, and fear ensures that Lizzie Borden’s legacy will once again captivate audiences worldwide.
