Charlie Hunnam has officially debuted his role as Ed Gein in the highly anticipated third season of Netflix’s Monster anthology. The first look at Hunnam in character was revealed this week, confirming that the season will premiere on October 3, 2025. Fans are already reacting strongly to his haunting transformation into one of America’s most infamous killers.
The new season, titled Monster: The Ed Gein Story, is set in 1950s Wisconsin and explores how Gein’s isolated upbringing, disturbing family dynamics, and obsession with his mother shaped his descent into gruesome crimes. Netflix confirmed that production wrapped earlier this summer, with the series now ready for its fall debut.
Key Updates on the Upcoming Release
- Release Date: Monster: The Ed Gein Story arrives globally on October 3, 2025.
- First Look: Netflix released teaser images and posters showcasing Hunnam’s chilling new appearance.
- Strong Ensemble Cast: Alongside Hunnam, the series stars Laurie Metcalf, Tom Hollander, Olivia Williams, Suzanna Son, Vicky Krieps, and Addison Rae.
- Anthology Growth: The series continues to expand its reach, with a fourth season already in development based on the Lizzie Borden case.
Why This Season Stands Out
This new chapter in the Monster series aims to dive deeper into the psychology of Ed Gein. His crimes not only horrified the public but also inspired some of the most enduring villains in pop culture, including Norman Bates in Psycho and Leatherface in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
Several elements are expected to set this season apart:
- Psychological Depth: The story focuses heavily on Gein’s obsessive bond with his mother, Augusta, portrayed by Laurie Metcalf.
- Cultural Commentary: By weaving in the influence Gein’s crimes had on horror storytelling, the season reflects on how real-life events shaped decades of film and television.
- Unique Casting Choices: With Tom Hollander as Alfred Hitchcock and Olivia Williams as Alma Reville, the show brings together fictionalized versions of filmmaking legends to frame Gein’s impact on cinema.
Cast Breakdown
| Role | Actor |
|---|---|
| Ed Gein | Charlie Hunnam |
| Augusta Gein | Laurie Metcalf |
| Alfred Hitchcock | Tom Hollander |
| Alma Reville | Olivia Williams |
| Supporting Roles | Suzanna Son, Vicky Krieps, Addison Rae |
How Season 3 Fits into the Monster Legacy
The Monster anthology has quickly become one of Netflix’s most successful true-crime dramatizations.
- Season 1 focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, becoming one of the platform’s most-watched series.
- Season 2 centered on the Menendez brothers, continuing the franchise’s popularity.
- Season 3, with Charlie Hunnam as Ed Gein, takes the franchise into darker psychological territory, exploring how trauma, obsession, and isolation produced one of history’s most disturbing figures.
With its mix of shocking true crime and commentary on horror culture, this season is positioned to generate both controversy and acclaim.
Looking Ahead
Even as fans prepare for The Ed Gein Story, Netflix has confirmed plans for Monster Season 4. That installment will spotlight Lizzie Borden, whose alleged axe murders in the 19th century remain one of the most notorious cases in American history. Production is expected to begin later this year with a likely release in late 2026.
Charlie Hunnam taking on the role of Ed Gein marks a bold moment for both his career and the Monster franchise. His intense transformation, paired with a strong supporting cast, promises one of the anthology’s most chilling seasons yet. With the October premiere just weeks away, anticipation is steadily building.
Stay tuned, because this chilling chapter is set to leave audiences talking long after the credits roll.
FAQ
Q1: When will Monster: The Ed Gein Story be released?
A1: The series premieres on Netflix on October 3, 2025.
Q2: Who plays Ed Gein in the upcoming season?
A2: Charlie Hunnam takes on the lead role, portraying the infamous murderer.
Q3: What comes after the Ed Gein season?
A3: Season 4 of Monster will focus on Lizzie Borden, with release expected in late 2026.