Netflix Drama Monster Explores Lizzie Borden Axe Murders

Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan's true-crime anthology series 'Monster' has released its fourth season, focusing on the infamous 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts. The story centers on Ella Beatty as Lizzie Borden, a stifled dreamer whose life shatters under strict Victorian constraints until violent events occur around her.

The case remains one of America's most notorious unsolved mysteries from the late 19th century, inspiring decades of novels and films alongside recent media coverage. While schoolchildren still recite rhymes about Lizzie giving forty-one blows with an axe to both parents, historical records indicate she was charged but acquitted in June 1893.

Showrunners Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan describe the new episode as a deep psychological drama that questions whether monsters are made or born. Co-showrunner Ian Brennan emphasized the contrast between Lizzie's repressive household environment and her love for animals, noting that many true crime perspectives exist regarding what actually happened during those hot summer days in August.