Sarah Paulson Responds to Critics Saying Her Aileen Wuornos Performance Is ‘Not as Good’ as Charlize Theron’s

**Sarah Paulson Takes on the Iconic Role of Aileen Wuornos in Netflix’s ‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’**

Sarah Paulson has stepped into the shoes of Aileen Wuornos in Netflix’s latest anthology series, *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story*. This casting decision has sparked a wave of comparisons to Charlize Theron’s celebrated portrayal of the same character in the 2003 film *Monster*, a role that earned Theron an Academy Award for Best Actress. Paulson’s performance, however, is drawing attention for both its merit and the scrutiny that accompanies such a high-profile role.

During a recent discussion on Evan Ross Katz’s podcast *Shut Up Evan*, Paulson addressed the polarising opinions surrounding her performance. Some viewers have praised her interpretation as “great,” while others are quick to assert that it falls short of Theron’s iconic take. Paulson, however, firmly believes that such comparisons are unwarranted. “It’s just this sort of weird thing where it’s like, I didn’t set out to do something better than Charlize Theron,” she explained. “It’s the most glorious performance in the world.”

The process of reinterpretation is a natural part of acting, Paulson noted. She highlighted that theatre allows for numerous interpretations of well-known characters, and that one person’s performance should not overshadow another’s. For Paulson, the opportunity to explore a character from her unique perspective was invaluable. “I don’t understand people who say they wouldn’t watch my performance because they liked Theron in *Monster*,” she remarked.

In her analogy, Paulson drew from her own experiences in the theatre, recalling notable performances in plays like *Death of a Salesman*. She expressed appreciation for various actors and their portrayals, such as Philip Seymour Hoffman and Nathan Lane, without feeling compelled to choose between them. Rather, Paulson views acting as a medium to explore human behaviour and convey personal interpretation. “This is my interpretation of Aileen Wuornos based on the research I did and based on my personhood,” she elaborated.

When Ryan Murphy, co-creator of *Monster*, approached Paulson with the role of Wuornos, she initially felt apprehensive, aware of the weight of the comparisons to Theron. Nevertheless, her desire to take on the challenge prevailed. “I thought, ‘But I want to try,’” she recalled, comparing her approach to an athlete poised to take a leap. “And the doing, that’s all we have,” she added, indicating her commitment to the role despite the pressures involved.

In conversation with PEOPLE at the *American Horror Story 13* premiere, Paulson described her experience playing Wuornos as both exhilarating and daunting. “It was one of the greatest experiences of my life,” she stated, acknowledging the fears that accompany portraying such a complex character. With many actors having previously tackled the role, she felt it was an honour to contribute her interpretation. “It felt like a real honour and a total parachute jump out of a plane,” she said.

*Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* portrays Wuornos as an admirer of Lizzie Borden, the infamous figure accused of an axe murder in the late 19th century. Paulson is joined by a talented ensemble cast, including Ella Beatty as Borden, Charlie Hunnam as Andrew Borden, Rebecca Hall as Abby Borden, and Billie Lourd as Emma Borden. Notably, Vicky Krieps will take on a dual role as both Countess Elizabeth Báthory and Bridget Sullivan.

Over the years, Wuornos has been depicted on screen by several actresses, including Jean Smart in the 1992 TV film *Overkill*, Lily Rabe in *American Horror Story: Hotel*, and Peyton List in *Aileen Wuornos: American Boogeywoman* (2021). The persistent interest in her story highlights the complexities of her character and the various ways actors have sought to bring her to life.

Both *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* and *Shut Up Evan* are now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting audiences to make their own assessments of Paulson’s performance and the ongoing cultural fascination with figures like Wuornos and Borden. As viewers engage with this latest retelling, Paulson’s portrayal stands as a testament to the evolving narrative of characters rooted in true crime and the diverse interpretations they inspire.