Netflix’s latest true-crime anthology entry, *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story*, has launched to a strongly mixed reception on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a continuation of the franchise’s rocky critical path. Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, this fourth installment stars Ella Beatty, daughter of Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, as Lizzie Borden, the infamous woman acquitted in 1892 of axe murders. Supporting roles include Rebecca Hall and Charlie Hunnam as the Bordens’ stepmother and father. The eight-episode series premiered on Netflix on September 17, 2026, but has already earned a 50% critics’ “rotten” score and a harsh 26% audience rating, signaling widespread disappointment compared to earlier seasons.

The previous *Monster* seasons also struggled with critical approval, though some found success with viewers. The debut season, *The Jeffrey Dahmer Story* (2022), scored 57% with critics but was embraced by audiences at 82%, while subsequent seasons saw both critic and viewer scores decline—*The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story* (2024) fell to 47% critics and 58% audience, and *The Ed Gein Story* dropped to 22% critics and 49% audience. *Lizzie Borden* has unfortunately followed this downward trend in fan ratings, suggesting that the series may be losing its general appeal even as it maintains its ambitious true-crime formula.

Critics remain divided on *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story*’s artistic merits. Some reviewers lamented a lack of depth and fresh insight into Borden’s motivations, with comments highlighting missed opportunities to meaningfully explore female anger or moral ambiguity. Others praised the show’s stylish presentation, noting unique visual touches and strong performances from the cast, especially Hall and Beatty. Positive reviews also pointed out the series' restraint compared to previous *Monster* installments, and some felt it offered an original mood and perspective despite a generally “rotten” consensus on Rotten Tomatoes.

Ultimately, *The Lizzie Borden Story* joins the *Monster* anthology as another controversial chapter that splits critics and audiences alike. While it may garner attention for its dark subject matter and production values, it struggles to secure consistent acclaim or enthusiasm. Netflix subscribers intrigued by true crime will find all eight episodes available now, but the series’ middling reception highlights the challenge of keeping this true-crime anthology fresh and compelling as it ventures into increasingly well-trodden true stories.