Ian Brennan Outlines 10-Season Vision for Netflix's 'Monster' Anthology

Key points

• Brennan and Ryan Murphy aim for a total of 10 seasons, currently evaluating a shortlist of three potential subjects for the next installment.
• The selection process is described as the hardest part; Brennan noted that many potential subjects are abandoned because they lack the necessary narrative gravity.
• Season 4, 'The Lizzie Borden Story,' is structured as a triptych linking Lizzie Borden, Elizabeth Bathory, and Aileen Wuornos to highlight a throughline of female rage.
• Brennan stated that writing the seasons is relatively effortless once a subject is chosen, as the creators are curating known facts rather than inventing stories from scratch.
• The season features Ella Beatty as Lizzie Borden, with Charlie Hunnam, Rebecca Hall, and Vicky Krieps in supporting roles, and Sarah Paulson appearing as Aileen Wuornos.

Background

The 'Monster' anthology has previously covered Jeffrey Dahmer, the Menendez brothers, and Ed Gein. Season 4, 'The Lizzie Borden Story,' premiered on September 17, 2026, marking the first season to focus on a female perpetrator. This installment follows earlier coverage of the show's expansion and the casting of Sarah Paulson as Aileen Wuornos.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the creative process, highlighting Brennan's view that selecting subjects is more challenging than writing them and that the Lizzie Borden case was chosen organically after the Luigi Mangione case proved too new. The BBC focuses on the historical and cultural impact of the 1892 murders, noting the enduring mystery of the acquittal and the show's exploration of psychological drama. Vogue provides a lighter, event-based perspective, covering the premiere atmosphere and the cast's presence. The sources generally agree on the cast and the thematic focus on female rage, but differ in emphasis: THR focuses on the production logistics and future plans, while the BBC focuses on the historical context and previous adaptations.

Why it matters

The confirmation of a 10-season plan signals a long-term commitment from Netflix and the creators to the true-crime anthology format. The shift to a female subject in Season 4 represents a significant thematic pivot in the series, moving beyond male serial killers to explore gender-specific dynamics and societal constraints. The success of this season will likely determine the pace and direction of the remaining seasons in the planned run.

What to watch

Brennan and Murphy are currently evaluating a shortlist of three subjects for Season 5, though no specific names have been confirmed. Brennan is also working on Season 2 of 'The Watcher' for Netflix, though no release date has been announced. The next 'Monster' season will likely focus on a subject that offers a compelling narrative for a multi-hour viewing experience.