Every Entry in Netflix’s ‘Monster’ Anthology Series in Order

Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, the biographical true-crime anthology series ‘Monster’ on Netflix delves into the lives of infamous figures throughout history. Each episode highlights sensational criminal cases that captivated public interest and sparked widespread debate.

The series employs ensemble casts to examine the psychological, familial, and social dynamics surrounding these intricate real-life events. Covering multiple decades of criminal history, ‘Monster’ continues to grow with new chapters focusing on notorious personalities.

‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ (2022)

The inaugural season of the anthology chronicles the life and horrific crimes of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer from 1978 to 1991. Evan Peters takes on the role of Dahmer, highlighting the systemic failures and police negligence that allowed his killing spree to persist for over a decade. The story is primarily told through the eyes of Dahmer’s victims and his neighbor Glenda Cleveland, portrayed by Niecy Nash. Supporting performances by Richard Jenkins and Molly Ringwald depict the killer’s parents grappling with his descent into violence. This ten-episode limited series quickly became one of the most-watched English-language television programs in Netflix history.

‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’ (2024)

The second installment shifts focus to the 1989 murders of entertainment executive José Menendez and his wife Kitty at the hands of their sons. Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez star as brothers Erik and Lyle Menendez, detailing the events leading up to the Beverly Hills slayings. Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny portray the affluent parents whose actions become pivotal to the brothers’ defense strategy. The narrative dissects the high-profile trials and media frenzy surrounding the claims of lifelong familial abuse. Ari Graynor and Nathan Lane complete the central cast as defense attorney Leslie Abramson and journalist Dominick Dunne.

‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ (2025)

The third chapter explores the grim life of Ed Gein, the 1950s Wisconsin murderer and grave robber whose gruesome acts inspired several classic horror films. Charlie Hunnam stars as Gein, a reclusive figure whose crimes shocked the rural community of Plainfield and fascinated criminologists. Laurie Metcalf plays his overbearing mother Augusta Gein, whose strict religious beliefs significantly influenced his psychological development. The season also features Tom Hollander as filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, linking Gein’s notorious legacy to the creation of cinematic horror masterpieces like ‘Psycho’. Vicky Krieps and Suzanna Son join the ensemble in supporting roles to enrich the mid-century true-crime narrative.

‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’ (2026)

The fourth season centers on the notorious 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts. Ella Beatty leads the cast as Lizzie Borden, the primary suspect who was tried and ultimately acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother. Charlie Hunnam and Rebecca Hall portray the ill-fated parents, while Billie Lourd appears as Lizzie’s older sister Emma Borden. The cast also features Vicky Krieps in dual roles, Jessica Barden as actress Nance O’Neil, and Sarah Paulson as serial killer Aileen Wuornos. This historical period piece investigates the unsolved mystery, social gossip, and intense public scrutiny that characterized the late nineteenth-century trial.

Share your thoughts on which installment in the anthology series you found most compelling in the comments.