With the release of Monster: The Ed Gein Story on Netflix on October 3, 2025, starring Charlie Hunnam as the infamous serial killer Ed Gein, viewers may want to delve deeper into Hunnam's filmography. Here are some notable Charlie Hunnam shows to watch before diving into this true crime story:
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Queer as Folk (1999-2000): This British series marked an early role for Hunnam, where he played Nathan Maloney, a young and vibrant character exploring the gay scene in Manchester. This role showcases Hunnam's range and ability to portray complex characters, a stark contrast to the darkness of Ed Gein.
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Undeclared (2001-2002): In this comedy series created by Judd Apatow, Hunnam played Lloyd Haythe, a charming and charismatic British exchange student. This lighthearted role offers a glimpse into Hunnam's comedic timing and ability to portray likable characters, further highlighting his versatility as an actor.
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Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014): This FX series is arguably Hunnam's most well-known role, where he starred as Jax Teller, the complicated and conflicted leader of a motorcycle club. Sons of Anarchy offers a deep dive into Hunnam's ability to portray a character grappling with morality, loyalty, and violence, elements that may resonate with the themes explored in Monster: The Ed Gein Story.
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Shantaram (2022): In this Apple TV+ series, Hunnam plays Lin Ford, a fugitive who reinvents himself in the bustling city of Bombay. Shantaram showcases Hunnam's capacity to embody characters seeking redemption and navigating morally ambiguous situations, a theme that could provide insight into his portrayal of Ed Gein.
These roles demonstrate the breadth of Charlie Hunnam's acting abilities, from comedic and light-hearted characters to complex and morally ambiguous figures. Watching these shows before Monster: The Ed Gein Story can provide a deeper appreciation for Hunnam's talent and his approach to portraying such a dark and disturbing character as Ed Gein.
Monster: The Ed Gein Story delves into the life of Ed Gein, a convicted murderer and body snatcher whose crimes inspired iconic horror films like Psycho and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. The series explores Gein's troubled upbringing, his relationship with his mother, and the gruesome details of his crimes. Charlie Hunnam reportedly lost 30 pounds to transform himself into Ed Gein for the role. The series also stars Laurie Metcalf as Augusta Gein, Ed's mother, Tom Hollander as Alfred Hitchcock, and Olivia Williams as Alma Reville.