Osgood Perkins Slams Netflix’s ‘Ed Gein’ Series for Glamorizing True Crime

Film director Osgood Perkins has publicly condemned Netflix‘s new series. He criticized Monster: The Ed Gein Story for its approach to real-life horror. The series dramatizes the killer who inspired films like Psycho, which starred Perkins’ father.

The new season portrays Anthony Perkins’ personal struggles. Osgood Perkins argues this adds a false, glamorous layer to painful history. His strong comments to TMZ highlight a growing debate about ethics in true crime entertainment.

Director Cites Father’s Legacy in Scathing Critique

Osgood Perkins would not watch the series “with a 10-foot pole.” He stated this clearly in an interview. His issue is with how streaming services package real pain.

He believes the “Netflix-ization” of such stories removes crucial context. According to Perkins, it makes entertainment from tragedy. This approach, he says, is “playing for the wrong team.”

The series includes a portrayal of his late father, Anthony Perkins. Joey Pollari plays the Psycho star. It touches on Anthony Perkins’ life as a closeted gay or bisexual man.

Osgood has spoken before about his father’s private life. He grew up in a household where his father lived “two lives.” He noted that such a duality was unacceptable in the mainstream then, and arguably remains difficult now.

Broader Debate on Ethics in True Crime Storytelling

Perkins’ criticism taps into a larger industry conversation. Many question if some series exploit victims’ stories for shock value. The focus on gruesome details often overshadows meaningful analysis.

For audiences, it raises a question about consumption. Are viewers learning about history or being served sensationalized content? The line between documentary and entertainment continues to blur.

The impact is felt by victims’ families and those connected to the story. Seeing personal trauma dramatized can be re-traumatizing. Perkins’ stance gives voice to this often-overlooked perspective.

Osgood Perkins’ rejection of the Ed Gein series underscores a critical shift. Viewers are increasingly aware of ethical storytelling. The true crime genre must now balance intrigue with respect.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What is Osgood Perkins’ main criticism of the Netflix series?

He argues it glamorizes true crime and is “devoid of context.” Perkins believes turning real pain into streaming content is unethical and serves the wrong purpose.

Q2: How does the series involve Osgood Perkins’ father?

The series depicts Anthony Perkins, who played Norman Bates in *Psycho*. It shows his career and his personal life as a closeted gay man in Hollywood during that era.

Q3: Who plays Anthony Perkins in the series?

Actor Joey Pollari portrays the iconic *Psycho* star. The series includes storylines about the making of the film inspired by Ed Gein’s crimes.

Q4: What did Osgood Perkins say about his father’s life?

He has said his father lived “two lives” as a closeted man. He noted the difficulty of being a public figure while hiding a part of your identity was immense at the time.

Q5: Why is Ed Gein a notable figure in crime history?

Ed Gein was a murderer and grave robber whose crimes inspired several famous horror films. These include *Psycho*, *The Texas Chain Saw Massacre*, and *The Silence of the Lambs*.

Q6: What is Osgood Perkins’ next project?

Perkins, director of *Longlegs*, has a new film titled *Keeper* scheduled for release. It is set to hit theaters on November 14 of this year.