Netflix’s Monster: The Ed Gein Story is now streaming and continues Ryan Murphy’s acclaimed true-crime anthology. The third installment of the Monster franchise explores the life and crimes of Ed Gein, one of America’s most infamous murderers whose story inspired iconic horror characters such as Norman Bates, Leatherface, and Buffalo Bill.
Led by Charlie Hunnam as Ed Gein, the series features a talented ensemble cast that brings one of the most disturbing true-crime stories in American history to life. Here’s a complete guide to the cast and characters.
Ed Gein Netflix Cast at a Glance
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Charlie Hunnam | Ed Gein |
| Laurie Metcalf | Augusta Gein |
| Tom Hollander | Alfred Hitchcock |
| Joey Pollari | Anthony Perkins |
| Suzanna Son | Adeline Watkins |
| Addison Rae | Evelyn Hartley |
Who Plays Ed Gein in Netflix’s Monster: The Ed Gein Story?
Charlie Hunnam stars as Ed Gein, the Wisconsin murderer whose shocking crimes inspired several legendary horror villains.
Known for his commitment to demanding roles, Hunnam delivers one of the most intense performances of his career as the troubled killer. The series explores Gein’s isolated upbringing, psychological struggles, and the crimes that forever changed American true-crime history.
Where You’ve Seen Charlie Hunnam Before
Charlie Hunnam is best known for:
- Sons of Anarchy
- The Gentlemen
- Pacific Rim
- King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
- Rebel Moon
Laurie Metcalf as Augusta Gein
Laurie Metcalf plays Augusta Gein, Ed’s strict and deeply religious mother.
The relationship between Augusta and Ed forms the emotional foundation of the series. Many historians consider her influence a key factor in understanding Gein’s disturbing worldview and later actions. Metcalf is one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood and brings significant dramatic weight to the role.
Where You’ve Seen Laurie Metcalf Before
Some of her most popular projects include:
- Roseanne
- The Conners
- Lady Bird
- Toy Story franchise
- The Big Bang Theory
Tom Hollander as Alfred Hitchcock
Tom Hollander plays legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock.
His inclusion highlights the cultural impact of Gein’s crimes, which later inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s classic horror film Psycho and helped shape the modern horror genre.
Tom Hollander’s Notable Roles
- The White Lotus
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Pride & Prejudice
- The Night Manager
Joey Pollari as Anthony Perkins
Joey Pollari portrays Anthony Perkins, the actor who famously played Norman Bates in Psycho.
The storyline involving Perkins explores how Gein’s real-life crimes influenced one of cinema’s most iconic horror characters.
Joey Pollari’s Previous Work
- Love, Simon
- American Crime
- The Inbetweeners
- The Fallout
Suzanna Son as Adeline Watkins
Suzanna Son plays Adeline Watkins, a young local woman whose connection to Ed Gein becomes an important part of the story.
The series uses Adeline’s character to explore Gein’s interactions within the Plainfield community and offers additional insight into his personal life beyond the crimes themselves.
Where You’ve Seen Suzanna Son Before
- Red Rocket
- The Idol
Addison Rae as Evelyn Hartley
Addison Rae portrays Evelyn Hartley, a Wisconsin teenager whose disappearance became one of the era’s most talked-about local cases.
Her storyline helps establish the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that surrounded Wisconsin communities during the period depicted in the series.
Addison Rae’s Popular Projects
- He’s All That
- Thanksgiving
- Animal Friends
Why the Cast Matters
One of the defining strengths of the Monster anthology has always been its casting. Previous installments featured acclaimed performances from Evan Peters and Javier Bardem, and Monster: The Ed Gein Story continues that tradition.
Charlie Hunnam and Laurie Metcalf lead a cast that balances established Hollywood talent with rising stars, helping bring this chilling true story to life.
What Is Monster: The Ed Gein Story About?
The series chronicles the life of Ed Gein, whose crimes shocked America during the 1950s. Beyond the criminal investigation, the show examines Gein’s childhood, his relationship with his mother, and the cultural legacy that transformed his story into inspiration for some of horror’s most famous fictional villains.
While Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan created the Monster anthology franchise, Ian Brennan served as the primary showrunner for this installment.
Final Thoughts
Monster: The Ed Gein Story features one of Netflix’s strongest true-crime casts to date. Charlie Hunnam’s transformation into Ed Gein, Laurie Metcalf’s portrayal of Augusta Gein, and supporting performances from Tom Hollander, Joey Pollari, Suzanna Son, and Addison Rae make this a highly anticipated addition to the Monster anthology.
Now streaming on Netflix, Monster: The Ed Gein Story delivers another compelling chapter in the Monster anthology. With standout performances from Charlie Hunnam, Laurie Metcalf, Tom Hollander, Joey Pollari, Suzanna Son, and Addison Rae, the series offers a fascinating look at one of America’s most notorious criminals and the lasting impact of his story on popular culture.
FAQs
Who plays Ed Gein in the Netflix series?
Charlie Hunnam plays Ed Gein in Monster: The Ed Gein Story.
Who plays Augusta Gein?
Laurie Metcalf portrays Augusta Gein, Ed Gein’s mother.
Is Monster: The Ed Gein Story based on a true story?
Yes. The series is based on the life and crimes of real-life murderer Ed Gein.
Who does Addison Rae play in the series?
Addison Rae plays Evelyn Hartley.
Who created Monster: The Ed Gein Story?
The series was created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan for Netflix.
Who serves as the showrunner for Monster: The Ed Gein Story?
Ian Brennan serves as the primary showrunner for the third installment of the Monster anthology.