Did ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ Reference a Canceled Favorite? Analyzing the Possible Meaning
In the final installment of “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” titled “The Godfather,” viewers are transported back to the 1970s to encounter a terrifying new figure dubbed “the Pacific Northwest Killer.” This elusive predator, targeting young women, is instantly recognizable by his light yellow VW bug, the cast on his arm, and his deceptive charm, characteristics that align with the infamous Ted Bundy, portrayed by John T. O’Brien. However, his real identity remains concealed in this part of the narrative.
The story then takes a detour to a nearby prison, where FBI agents John Douglas and Robert Ressler, played by Sean Carrigan and Caleb Ruminer, engage with Jerry Brudos, portrayed by Happy Anderson, also known as the “Shoe Fetish Slayer” due to his gruesome crimes. For fans of the series “Mindhunter,” these agents mirror the real-life pioneers who ventured across the country to interview serial killers in a bid to decipher their twisted minds. Working alongside Ann Burgess, played by Megan Ketch, they interrogate Brudos, who attributes his murderous inclinations to none other than Ed Gein, portrayed by Charlie Hunnam.
Although Ed Gein’s collaboration with the FBI is a fictionalized element in the miniseries, the narrative cleverly intertwines his character with the study of serial killers, depicting a scenario where Gein offers crucial insights into the mind of a murderer. Interestingly, in reality, Gein was apprehended in 1957, long before the inception of the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit in the early 1970s, making it improbable for him to have had any direct involvement with the bureau. Nevertheless, his heinous actions indirectly impacted the subsequent examination of serial killers.
The subtle homage to the acclaimed Netflix series extends beyond a mere mention of the FBI agents. Notably, Happy Anderson reprises his portrayal of Jerry Brudos in “Monster: The Ed Gein Story,” a character he had previously brought to life in “Mindhunter.” This clever crossover serves as an Easter egg for devoted fans, rewarding them with a connection between the two portrayals. By incorporating this nod to “Mindhunter,” the miniseries not only pays tribute to its loyal audience but also weaves a cohesive thread between the two versions that enriches the viewing experience for attentive fans.