Joey Pollari has recently received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Anthony Perkins in the Netflix series, Monster: The Ed Gein Story. However, the inclusion of Perkins in the show has sparked controversy, with some viewers criticizing the show for hinting at a link between the actor and the real-life serial killer, Ed Gein. Perkins’ son, Osgood Perkins, has also spoken out against the show, calling it out for “glamourizing” the true-crime genre and playing “for the wrong team.”
The third season of Monster, which premiered earlier this month, focuses on the horrific crimes of Ed Gein, who inspired iconic fictional characters such as Leatherface from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Buffalo Bill from The Silence of the Lambs, and Norman Bates from Psycho. In one episode, the show explores the making of Psycho, with Tom Hollander and Joey Pollari portraying Alfred Hitchcock and Anthony Perkins, respectively.
While the show has been well-received by many, it has also faced backlash for its portrayal of Anthony Perkins. Some viewers have expressed their discomfort with the show’s insinuation that Perkins’ sexuality may have been linked to Gein’s actions. Perkins, who was known for his iconic role as Norman Bates in Psycho, chose to conceal his sexuality during his lifetime. This choice has led to speculation and rumors about his possible connection to the real-life killer, which the show seems to have touched upon.
Perkins’ son, Osgood Perkins, has been vocal about his disapproval of the show and its portrayal of his father. In an interview with TMZ, he stated that he would not watch the show “with a 10-foot pole.” He also criticized streaming platforms for “glamorizing” true-crime and lacking proper context, stating that the “Netflix-isation” of real pain is “playing for the wrong team.”
In a previous interview with People magazine, Osgood Perkins shared how the way his parents concealed his father’s sexuality from him inspired his horror movie, Longlegs. He revealed that while everyone knew about his father’s sexuality, it was never discussed openly within the family. This lack of communication and understanding led to a feeling of confusion and mystery for him and his brother.
In Longlegs, Osgood Perkins explores the idea of a young boy growing up in a household where his father’s sexuality is kept hidden and how that can affect him. He explained that his film is a “baroque horror version” of his personal experience and that this feeling of not knowing who his father truly was is something that many children can relate to, but it becomes more profound when your father is a famous movie star.
Despite the controversy surrounding the show, Monster continues to be popular with Netflix users, with a fourth season currently in the works, based on another famous case from history. The show has received praise for its compelling storytelling and brilliant performances, including Joey Pollari’s nuanced portrayal of Anthony Perkins.
Pollari has been praised for his ability to capture the essence of Perkins, bringing a level of vulnerability and complexity to the character. His performance has been described as both chilling and captivating, with many viewers impressed by his range as an actor.
In an interview, Pollari shared his excitement about taking on the role of Anthony Perkins and the challenges that came with it. He also expressed his admiration for the late actor and his iconic portrayal of Norman Bates in Psycho. Pollari’s dedication to the role is evident in his performance, and it is a testament to his talent as an actor.
Ultimately, the inclusion of Anthony Perkins in Monster: The Ed Gein Story is a thought-provoking choice by the show’s creators. It sheds light on the complexity of Perkins’ life and the impact of his choices on his family and the public. While the show may have sparked controversy, it has also sparked important conversations about the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media and the responsibility of true-crime shows to portray events accurately and respectfully.
Joey Pollari’s portrayal of Anthony Perkins in Monster has been a standout performance in the series, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor. The controversy surrounding the show has shed light on important issues, and it is a reminder of the power of storytelling and the responsibility that comes with it. As the show continues to gain popularity, it is important to remember the real-life victims and their families and to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect.
