**Charlie Hunnam Takes on a New Role in ‘Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story’**
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Actor Charlie Hunnam has stepped into a markedly different role in the fourth season of the acclaimed anthology series *Monster*, portraying Andrew Borden, the affluent father of the infamous Lizzie Borden, played by Ella Beatty. Hunnam, who is no stranger to the series—having previously appeared as the notorious murderer Ed Gein in its third season—describes the contrasting experiences between the two projects.
In *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story*, Hunnam embodies Andrew Borden, described as a wealthy carpenter and a father figure who is emotionally detached. This season’s narrative takes a unique twist, as it details the story from the perspective of one of the show’s victims. This role marks a departure from Hunnam’s previous portrayal of a chilling serial killer, allowing him to explore a different dimension of character development.
Speaking to PEOPLE, Hunnam attributed his decision to return to *Monster* to the creative influences of series co-creators Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. He expressed particular enthusiasm for the comedic elements woven into the narrative, which he found to dramatically shift the tone compared to his earlier stint. “I felt like the tone was slightly different,” Hunnam remarked. “It was a little more irreverent, a little more sort of bonkers, theatrical, and a bit more comedic than the past season that I had done.”
When Hunnam initially signed on for the role of Ed Gein, he experienced a wave of anxiety. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he recounted a moment of panic that engulfed him during the research phase for playing a character steeped in horror and notoriety. He articulated that the literature surrounding Gein was often sensationalised, leading him to question if he had made the right decision in taking on such a dark role. It was only when he delved into Gein’s medical records that Hunnam discovered a more nuanced understanding of the man behind the horrors, allowing him to reconcile with the character.
To accurately portray Ed Gein, Hunnam underwent a significant physical transformation, including a 30-pound weight loss. He wore a prosthetic eyelid and adopted an altered hairstyle alongside a high-pitched voice to embody the infamous character. Such commitments came with substantial emotional burdens, causing the actor to bear the weight of depicting such a dark narrative.
The tonal shift in *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* has provided Hunnam with a fresh perspective. Max Winkler, the director of this current season, has noted a liberating effect on Hunnam, who, he believes, is relieved of the emotional burden he carried while portraying Gein. Winkler noted, “Before, his weight got put on when we made Gein. There was very little Charlie ever. I got to actually have my friend back a little bit for the making of Lizzie.” This aspect of their collaboration has made the filming experience more enjoyable, allowing for levity and laughter to permeate the set.
Hunnam’s return to the anthology brings forth a tantalising blend of suspense and humour, as the story of Lizzie Borden, a figure lost to history and intrigue, unfolds with a comedic flair. This particular adaptation showcases the haunting saga with a unique perspective that distinguishes it from its predecessors.
Fans of the series, as well as new viewers intrigued by Hunnam’s latest venture, can look forward to a thrilling fusion of historical horror and dark comedy. *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* streams on Netflix, ready for audiences to experience this fresh take on a chilling historical figure steeped in infamy.
As the narrative unfolds, audiences can expect sharp writing and intricate character dynamics that delve into the complexities of familial relationships, particularly between Lizzie and her father. With a blend of horror and humour, this season is poised to captivate viewers, keeping them guessing as to the true nature of the relationships portrayed within.
Overall, Hunnam’s role in *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* serves as a testament to his versatility as an actor, embodying both darkness and levity and navigating the multifaceted world of true crime storytelling with aplomb.