Ella Beatty, daughter of actors Annette Bening and Warren Beatty, has taken on the lead role of Lizzie Borden in the Netflix anthology series “Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story,” now available for streaming. At 26, Beatty landed the part after submitting a self-taped audition, an experience she approached like any other actor, despite her Hollywood lineage. The series is created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, who selected Beatty for her portrayal of the complex character based on the notorious figure who was tried and acquitted for the 1892 axe murders of her stepmother and father.

The show dramatizes the Victorian-era upbringing and infamous crimes associated with Borden, blending historical fact with fictional elements and thematic exploration. It highlights the stark contrast between Borden’s composed public demeanor and the brutal violence of the killings. The series, known for its heightened portrayals of infamous personalities, also delves into a fictionalized romantic relationship between Lizzie and the household maid, Bridget “Maggie” Sullivan, played by Vicky Krieps. This storyline explores themes of sexual identity and liberation, adding depth to Borden’s characterization beyond the traditional narrative.

Beatty said she found an immediate connection with the character, whom she described as a "wallflower" overlooked by society and somewhat socially awkward. She emphasized the importance of portraying Lizzie as multifaceted, reflecting both vulnerability and the capacity for violence. Addressing the historical victims, Abby and Andrew Borden, Beatty expressed a sense of responsibility to honor them while balancing the creative demands of the series. She trusted the creators’ approach to the material, focusing primarily on the script to inform her performance.

Reflecting on past portrayals, Beatty acknowledged the lasting intrigue surrounding Lizzie Borden’s story, noting the many interpretations over the years, including Chloë Sevigny’s 2018 portrayal. Beatty and Sevigny exchanged messages, and Beatty praised her for both the performance and personal support. The two women’s differing interpretations underscore the enduring fascination and theatrical potential of the Borden case.

The romantic angle between Lizzie and Maggie underscores a broader engagement with female perspectives and self-discovery, Beatty said. She and Krieps developed their characters’ relationship through close collaboration, emphasizing spontaneity and mutual trust in their performances.

Beatty also credited her family’s artistic background with providing emotional support throughout the process. Looking ahead, she sees the series as an exploration of themes such as female rage, repression, power, and love. She hopes the audience will grapple with why Lizzie might have committed the crimes if she did, and how the story resonates today in terms of gender and societal expectations.

“Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story” frames its narrative not only as a true crime drama but also as a meditation on the complexity of its female protagonist, inviting viewers to reconsider a historic figure often reduced to legend.