Netflix’s Monster Season 4 Is Shaking Things Up — And Fans Are Divided Already
Netflix is officially breaking the rules with Monster season 4, and fans are already buzzing. The hit crime anthology—known for its chilling deep dives into the minds of infamous killers—is doing something it’s never done before. But here’s where it gets controversial: a familiar face is returning, and the new focus marks a dramatic shift in the show’s dark storytelling tradition.
The streaming giant has confirmed that Monster season 4, starring Ella Beatty as the notorious Lizzie Borden, has begun filming in Los Angeles. The news comes directly from Netflix’s announcement, which also revealed that Charlie Hunnam is back in the cast—this time portraying Borden’s father, Andrew Borden. His comeback is particularly surprising given his previous leading role as Ed Gein in season 3, leaving viewers to wonder how his return will fit within the show’s ever-evolving format. Joining the star-studded lineup are Vicky Krieps, Rebecca Hall, Billie Lourd, and Jessica Barden, rounding out a cast that’s already fueling conversation among fans of true crime dramas.
For the first time in the series, Monster will spotlight a female killer—a bold move that breaks from its long-standing formula. Lizzie Borden’s story has fascinated and divided audiences for over a century. Accused of brutally murdering her father and stepmother with an axe on August 4, 1892, in Fall River, Massachusetts, Borden’s sensational trial ended in acquittal, yet the mystery remains unsolved. No one else was ever charged, leaving her case shrouded in speculation and myth. It’s this ambiguity that makes her story both haunting and ripe for reinterpretation. But is Netflix stepping into a risky gray area by retelling one of America’s most debated murder stories through modern lenses?
In season 4, Hunnam’s portrayal of Andrew Borden promises to explore the strained family dynamics that led up to the fateful tragedy. Vicky Krieps will step into the role of Bridget Sullivan, the family’s maid and a key witness in the case. Rebecca Hall will bring the ill-fated Abby Borden to life, Billie Lourd will play Emma Borden (Lizzie’s sister, who stood by her even after the murders), and Jessica Barden will take on Nance O’Neill, an actress rumored to have had a controversial friendship with Lizzie. The first episode will be directed by Max Winkler, setting the tone for what could be the show’s most emotionally charged season yet.
The timing of this announcement is intriguing. It arrives on the heels of both acclaim and backlash surrounding season 3, Monster: The Ed Gein Story, which received harsh critical feedback—earning just 20% from critics and 54% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. Yet, despite those numbers, the series stormed to Netflix’s Top 10 English-language shows within days of release, proving that controversy doesn’t always kill viewership—in fact, it might just fuel it.
Netflix’s confidence in greenlighting season 4 signals that the platform still sees major potential in the Monster brand. Critics may call the show exploitative, but audiences can’t seem to look away. With the streamer’s global reach and the series’ consistent streaming success, it appears Monster has secured its place as one of Netflix’s boldest ongoing anthologies. Even with uneven reception, its blend of true crime and psychological drama keeps fans returning for more.
Could focusing on Lizzie Borden be the redemption Monster needs—or another spark for debate over how far is too far when dramatizing real-life violence? That’s the question fans are already asking as production kicks off.
Monster: Lizzie Borden (Season 4) is now in production and slated for release on October 3, 2025.
Cast Highlights:
- Ella Beatty as Lizzie Borden
- Charlie Hunnam as Andrew Borden
- Vicky Krieps as Bridget Sullivan
- Rebecca Hall as Abby Borden
- Billie Lourd as Emma Borden
- Jessica Barden as Nance O’Neill
- Directed by Max Winkler
Now here’s the real question for fans: Do you think Netflix is breathing new life into Monster by breaking its own rules—or is this creative gamble destined to divide audiences even more? Share your thoughts below—this one’s going to spark debate.
