Overview

• The eight-episode third season in Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Monster anthology premiered October 3 on Netflix, dramatizing Ed Gein’s crimes and cultural influence on films like Psycho and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.
• FlixPatrol data shows the series ranked No. 1 on Netflix domestically and globally shortly after launch, outperforming recent chart leaders.
• Early critical response skews negative, with a 42% Rotten Tomatoes score and reviews describing the show as unfocused, exploitative, and fixated on graphic imagery.
• Multiple outlets note significant factual liberties, including fabricated FBI interviews about Ted Bundy, nonexistent chainsaw murders, and an exaggerated romantic storyline, while confirming Gein’s grave robbing and two confessed murders.
• Charlie Hunnam’s performance anchors the season, with reported preparation that included losing nearly 30 pounds and studying a rare recording of Gein’s voice.