Charlie Hunnam’s Grueling Transformation into Serial Killer Ed Gein for Netflix’s ‘Monster’

Charlie Hunnam delivers a chilling performance as Ed Gein in the new Netflix series. The show, titled ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story,’ premiered this week. It chronicles the life of the infamous 1950s murderer.

His crimes later inspired classic horror films like ‘Psycho’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs.’ The series aims to explore the man behind the monster.

An Immersive and Disturbing Deep Dive

Hunnam committed to an intense research process for the role. He read every book and court transcript about Gein he could find. The actor also studied the killer’s medical records extensively.

His goal was to understand the man, not sensationalize the crimes. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hunnam wanted to avoid glamorizing the horrific acts.

Co-star Tyler Jacob Moore confirmed Hunnam’s deep immersion. He said Hunnam was in character about 80 percent of the time on set. Moore described the experience as genuinely shocking and horrifying.

Mental Health and the Roots of Evil

The series frames Gein’s story around mental illness and trauma. It depicts his undiagnosed schizophrenia and the abuse he suffered. Co-creator Ian Brennan emphasized this humanizing approach.

He told The Hollywood Reporter that Hunnam wanted to find the person beneath the illness. The show suggests isolation and a troubled upbringing were key factors.

This season has been praised as the most impressive of the ‘Monster’ anthology. All eight episodes are available for streaming now on Netflix.

The new ‘Ed Gein series’ offers a stark look at American crime history and the fragile human psyche behind it.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new Ed Gein series about?

The Netflix series chronicles the life and crimes of 1950s serial killer Ed Gein. It explores his background and the mental health issues that led to his horrific acts. The show is the latest season in Ryan Murphy’s ‘Monster’ anthology.

Who plays Ed Gein in the new series?

Charlie Hunnam portrays the title character, Ed Gein. The ‘Sons of Anarchy’ star underwent a significant transformation for the role. He spent months researching to deliver an authentic performance.

Is the Ed Gein story based on real events?

Yes, the series is based on the real-life crimes of Ed Gein. His murders in Plainfield, Wisconsin, during the 1950s shocked the nation. Gein’s actions famously inspired characters in ‘Psycho’ and ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.’

How many episodes are in the series?

There are eight episodes in total. All episodes were released at once on Netflix. The season was co-directed by Max Winkler and Ian Brennan.

What was Charlie Hunnam’s preparation for the role?

Hunnam read every available book and court transcript on Gein. He also studied the killer’s medical records extensively. He sought to understand the man’s psychology rather than just play a villain.