The cast of ‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’ discusses the show's unique blend of comedy and horror, promising a fresh take on the infamous tale.
On September 17, 2026, Variety reported that the upcoming season of Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story will blend elements of comedy with its horror narrative. This fresh take challenges traditional interpretations of the infamous Lizzie Borden case, offering audiences a compelling and irreverent retelling of her life and notorious actions.
Ella Beatty, who portrays Lizzie Borden, expressed a deep connection to her character, stating she felt an immediate affinity during her audition. "I understand this person," she said, highlighting the essential complexity that the series aims to showcase in its characters. Charlie Hunnam, who plays Lizzie’s father, Andrew Borden, emphasized the bodily humor involved in his role, explaining his preparation by honing his ax skills. He referred to his newfound hobby of chopping wood, which mirrors his character's profession as an undertaker.
This new season marks a tonal shift from the previous installment focusing on the darker aspects of true crime, exemplified by The Ed Gein Story. Beatty described the show’s farcical tone and the surprising ability to interweave comedy with intense emotional moments. “[The] ability of comedy and really intense sadness or drama to be in the show really surprised me,” she noted. This balance of humor and horror not only broadens the series' appeal but also allows for a richer exploration of its central characters.
Vicky Krieps joins the cast as Bridget Sullivan, Lizzie's housemaid, who introduces her to daring literature and new ideas about life and love. Additionally, Rebecca Hall plays the cruel stepmother, Abby Borden, infusing humor and menace into her performance. Hall remarked on the interesting challenges presented by her character, who embodies complexity rather than serving as a straightforward antagonist. Together, the cast navigates a multi-layered narrative that questions the nature of monstrosity and empathy in its portrayal of historical figures.
The decision to approach Lizzie Borden’s story through a comedic lens distinguishes Monster from other adaptations, inviting viewers to reevaluate preconceived notions of the historical event. This deviation from traditional storytelling could attract a wider audience, especially those looking for a blend of humor within darker themes. The uniqueness of this perspective aims to encourage discussions about the nature of evil and how societal pressures can shape individual actions.
As anticipation builds for Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, its innovative narrative style could redefine how such tales are received, appealing not only to true crime enthusiasts but also to those interested in a lighthearted yet thoughtful exploration of complex subjects. With confirmed details indicating a unique balance between horror and comedy, viewers will likely engage in new conversations surrounding the ethical dimensions of storytelling and the challenges of portraying infamous figures like Borden. Fans can look forward to this season premiering soon, promising a distinctive blend of humor and horror that remains relevant today.
For more about this season, check out Variety's original article here.
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