Netflix has sent chills down the spines of true-crime enthusiasts with the official announcement of the cast for Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, the latest installment in Ryan Murphy’s gripping anthology series. Building on the massive success of previous seasons like Dahmer, The Menendez Brothers, and The Ed Gein Story, this chapter promises to be the darkest and most psychologically intricate yet, delving into one of America’s most enduring mysteries: the 1892 axe murders in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Leading the ensemble is Ella Beatty, daughter of Hollywood icons Annette Bening and Warren Beatty, who steps into the titular role of Lizzie Borden. The 28-year-old actress, known for her stage work and appearances in The Undoing, will portray the enigmatic Sunday school teacher accused of brutally killing her father and stepmother. Joining her is Oscar-nominated Rebecca Hall (The Night House, Godzilla x Kong) as Abby Borden, Lizzie’s stepmother and one of the victims, bringing a layer of familial tension to the screen.

Luxembourgish actress Vicky Krieps (Phantom Thread, Corsage) takes on the role of Bridget Sullivan, the Irish maid who was a key witness in the real-life trial, while Billie Lourd (American Horror Story, Booksmart) portrays Emma Borden, Lizzie’s devoted sister. Adding star power to the patriarch is Charlie Hunnam (Sons of Anarchy, Rebel Moon), cast as Andrew Borden, the wealthy but miserly father whose gruesome death shocked the nation. Rounding out the key players is Jessica Barden (The End of the F**ing World*) as Nance O’Neill, the actress who became a controversial figure in Lizzie’s post-acquittal life.

Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century New England, Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story will explore the psychological unraveling of Lizzie Borden amid societal pressures, family secrets, and the sensational trial that captivated America. Ryan Murphy, the mastermind behind the anthology, has teased that this season will blend historical accuracy with his signature stylistic flair, examining themes of mental health, gender roles, and media frenzy in the Gilded Age. “Lizzie’s story is a puzzle wrapped in mystery,” Murphy said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to bring this cast together to unpack the darkness and complexity that still haunts us today.”

The Monster series has become a cornerstone of Netflix’s true-crime slate, with Dahmer earning Emmy nods and massive viewership, followed by the timely Menendez Brothers and the eerie Ed Gein Story. This new season is poised to continue that momentum, offering a fresh lens on a case immortalized in folklore—the infamous rhyme “Lizzie Borden took an axe…” echoing through generations.

Filming is slated to begin soon, with a premiere eyed for 2026 on Netflix. Fans can expect the same binge-worthy format that has made the anthology a global phenomenon. As details emerge, one thing is clear: this retelling will axe its way into your nightmares. Stay tuned for more updates on what could be Murphy’s most ambitious Monster yet.

(Sources: Netflix Press Release, Variety Exclusive, October 2025)