The recent season of “Monster” focuses on Ed Gein, a notorious figure in criminal history. Gein, a Wisconsin resident, confessed to killing at least one individual and was known for exhuming bodies from cemeteries. The creators of the series, Ian Brennan and Ryan Murphy, have made it clear that certain infamous killers, particularly Ted Bundy, will not be featured in their show.
Ed Gein: A Complex Figure
Ian Brennan expressed his thoughts on Gein’s story during the “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” red carpet premiere. He referred to Bundy as “just a monster,” saying his story involves excessive sadism and sexual violence, which the creators do not find compelling. Brennan remarked that Gein’s character, while deeply strange, is more intriguing due to his multifaceted nature.
Insights from the Creators
- Brennan described Gein as “a very fascinating person” who “contains multitudes.”
- Both creators prefer stories that provoke thought rather than merely depicting violence.
- Brennan noted the importance of dimensionality in their storytelling approach.
Bundy’s Absence in “Monster”
Despite Bundy’s notorious legacy, he will not receive a season of “Monster.” Brennan and Murphy cite the lack of redeeming qualities in Bundy’s narrative. In an interview, Murphy remarked that Bundy’s crimes do not offer significant societal questions or themes worth exploring.
Nonfictional Connections Between Gein and Bundy
Interestingly, Bundy does make a brief appearance in “Monster: The Ed Gein Story.” In the season finale, Gein, portrayed by Charlie Hunnam, seemingly assists authorities in capturing Bundy. However, this could also reflect Gein’s imagination as he contemplates his influence on future killers.
Ed Gein’s Criminal Activities
Ed Gein was arrested in 1957 after the discovery of the body of Bernice Worden, a local hardware store owner, on his property. Investigators uncovered a disturbing collection of body parts and furniture crafted from human skin in his home. Throughout interviews, Gein confessed to killing two people and digging up numerous graves. He was found guilty of murder and subsequently declared insane, spending the remainder of his life in a mental health facility.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1957 | Gein arrested after discovery of Worden’s body. |
| 1968 | Found guilty of murder but deemed insane. |
| 1978 | Transferred to Mendota Mental Health Institute. |
| 1984 | Gein passes away in the hospital. |
| 1978 | Ted Bundy arrested during a traffic stop. |
| 1989 | Bundy executed via electric chair. |
The Tragic Reality of Ted Bundy
Ted Bundy’s criminal record includes the murder of three confirmed victims, but he confessed to taking the lives of over two dozen women and girls. His apprehension occurred on February 15, 1978, following a traffic stop for a stolen vehicle. Bundy was later sentenced to death and executed on January 24, 1989.
While both Gein and Bundy are infamous figures in true crime, their narratives diverge significantly. “Monster” aims to highlight the complexities of such characters, allowing audiences to engage with stories that provoke deeper reflections on human nature.
