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 examines the lives of notorious figures throughout history. Each installment focuses on sensational criminal cases that gripped public attention and provoked widespread debate.

The franchise utilizes ensemble casts to explore the psychological, familial, and social dynamics surrounding these complex real-life events. Spanning multiple decades of criminal history, the series continues to expand with new chapters spotlighting infamous figures.

‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ (2022)

The debut season of the anthology series chronicles the life and gruesome crimes of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer between 1978 and 1991. Evan Peters portrays Dahmer, exploring the systemic failures and police incompetence that enabled his killing spree to continue for over a decade. The narrative is largely framed through the perspective of Dahmer’s victims and his neighbor Glenda Cleveland, played by Niecy Nash. Supporting performances by Richard Jenkins and Molly Ringwald portray the killer’s parents as they reckon with his descent into violence. The 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 the focus to the 1989 murders of entertainment executive José Menendez and his wife Kitty by 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 take on the roles of the affluent parents whose actions become central to the brothers’ defense strategy. The narrative dissects the high-profile trials and media sensation that surrounded the claims of lifelong familial abuse. Ari Graynor and Nathan Lane round out the central cast as defense attorney Leslie Abramson and journalist Dominick Dunne.

‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ (2025)

The third chapter explores the macabre 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 captivated criminologists. Laurie Metcalf portrays his domineering mother Augusta Gein, whose strict religious beliefs heavily influenced his psychological development. The season also features Tom Hollander as filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, connecting 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 flesh out the mid-century true-crime narrative.

‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’ (2026)

The fourth season centers on the infamous 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 killing 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 portraying serial killer Aileen Wuornos. The historical period piece investigates the unsolved mystery, social gossip, and intense public scrutiny that defined the late nineteenth-century trial.

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