Ryan Murphy’s Emmy-winning Netflix anthology series Monster is returning with its most shocking premise yet. Season 4 will dive into the infamous true crime story of Lizzie Borden, with the series’ first female lead monster. Production is officially underway in Los Angeles, and the cast is absolutely stacked. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated season.
The Story: Who Was Lizzie Borden?
Lizzie Borden was tried and acquitted of the 1892 axe murders of her father and stepmother in Fall River, Massachusetts. Her name became synonymous with one of America’s most controversial true crime cases. The nursery rhyme “Lizzie Borden took an axe” still echoes over a century later, making her one of history’s most infamous—yet legally unproven—figures. Monster Season 4 will finally bring her complex story to the streaming screen in Ryan Murphy’s signature dramatic style.
Monster Season 4 Cast: Star-Studded Lineup
The casting for Season 4 is phenomenal, featuring some of Hollywood’s most talented actors:
| Actor | Role | Notable Background |
|---|---|---|
| Ella Beatty | Lizzie Borden (Lead) | Rising star making her Monster debut |
| Charlie Hunnam | Andrew Borden (Father) | Returning from Season 3 as Ed Gein |
| Rebecca Hall | Stepmother | Acclaimed actress known for dramatic depth |
| Vicky Krieps | The Maid | Featured in Phantom Thread; rumored as Lizzie’s romantic interest |
| Billie Lourd | Emma Borden | Sister; known for Scream Queens, American Horror Story |
| Jessica Barden | Nance O’Neill | Stage actress; adds historical authenticity |
Vicky Krieps plays a maid who is often speculated to be Lizzie’s lover, suggesting the season will explore nuanced, intimate relationships alongside the core murder mystery. This is a fascinating creative direction for a true crime adaptation.
Production and Behind-the-Scenes Details
Production is officially underway in Los Angeles on Netflix’s Emmy-winning Monster anthology series from Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. The show began filming just recently, which means we’re likely months away from seeing the finished product. Given Murphy’s track record, expect cinematic cinematography, meticulous attention to period detail, and the kind of psychological depth that made previous seasons so compelling.
The behind-the-scenes photos have already generated serious buzz among fans. The costume design, set pieces, and casting chemistry all point to an ambitious project that will do justice to this dark historical narrative.
Why Lizzie Borden as the First Female Monster?
For three seasons, Monster focused on male subjects: Dahmer, Gianni Versace, and Ed Gein. Lizzie Borden represents a departure—bringing a female perspective to the anthology’s signature formula. Her case raises profound questions about justice, gender, and society’s judgment of women. Unlike her male counterparts, Lizzie was acquitted, yet cultural memory still haunts her. This ambiguity makes her perfect Monster material.
Curious about the evolution of true crime television? Check out our coverage of Monster anthology series breakdown and Ryan Murphy productions.
What to Expect
Based on previous Monster seasons, expect a deeply character-driven narrative with shocking twists, intimate character moments, and unflinching examination of the Borden household. The series will likely explore the psychological pressures faced by women in the 1890s, class tensions, and the complexities of family dysfunction that may—or may not—have led to murder.
For the latest updates on Monster Season 4 and other Netflix releases, stay tuned to our Netflix news section.
Are you ready to unravel the mystery of Lizzie Borden? Monster Season 4 promises to be one of the most intriguing entries yet. What’s your theory—did she or didn’t she?
FAQs
Q1: When will Monster Season 4 be released on Netflix?
An official release date hasn’t been announced yet, but with production currently underway in October 2025, the season will likely premiere sometime in 2026. Typically, Monster seasons spend several months in post-production for editing, color grading, and visual effects, so expect a mid-to-late 2026 release. Netflix will likely announce the premiere date at least a few months in advance, so keep checking our Monster updates for announcements.
Q2: Will Monster Season 5 be about another true crime story?
Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Monster is an anthology series, meaning each season is standalone and can focus on different subjects. While a Season 5 hasn’t been officially announced, the anthology format allows Murphy unlimited possibilities. Previous speculation has suggested numerous historical figures—both male and female—as potential subjects. Netflix typically greenlights new seasons based on viewership and critical reception, so Season 4’s success will determine whether we get more monster stories.
