Netflix’s Monster: The Ed Gein Story, which debuted October 3, has captivated audiences with its chilling portrayal of one of America’s most infamous killers. Ed Gein’s gruesome murders and his macabre use of human remains in his home inspire both horror and fascination. Charlie Hunnam plays Gein in this latest installment of Ryan Murphy’s Monsters anthology, drawing strong reactions for the intense storytelling.
Amid the buzz, mental health professional Dr. Thema Bryant offered a warning during a 2023 podcast: regularly watching violent true crime shows might be a red flag for underlying trauma or stress, as some people mistake the adrenaline of horror for relaxation. She urged viewers to reflect on why such disturbing content appeals to them emotionally. Similarly, Dr. Jeglic from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice noted that trauma survivors may be drawn to true crime to relive traumatic experiences safely through media.
.jpg)
This warning comes as the show sparks discussions about the ethics of true crime entertainment and its psychological effects. Co-creator Ian Brennan emphasized Gein’s lasting impact on pop culture and horror, indicating why the story remains compelling despite its darkness. Viewers are encouraged to approach the series with mindfulness of its potential mental health consequences.
@melrobbins If your idea of “relaxing” before bed is watching a few episodes of Law & Order (or any other #truecrime show), listen up. This was just ONE of the many incredible mic drop moments 🎤 and knowledge bombs 💣 that @Dr Thema Bryant drops on the melrobbinspodcast. Listen now!! 👉 “6 Signs You’re Disconnected From Your Power and How to Get It Back: Life-Changing Advice From the Remarkable Dr. Thema Bryant” 🔗 in bio #melrobbins #podcast #trauma #traumatok #healing #bingewatching
