Sarah Paulson Addresses Aileen Wuornos Role Comparisons

Appearing on the Shut Up Evan podcast, Paulson addressed viewers who have refused to watch the series due to their loyalty to Theron’s original work. She dismissed the idea that acting is a competitive sport, drawing a parallel to theatrical traditions where multiple actors tackle the same historical or fictional figures. To Paulson, the art of performance lies in personal interpretation, not erasure. She noted that she did not set out to blast Theron’s performance off the screen, calling the 2003 portrayal glorious, but rather to offer a unique exploration of Wuornos based on her own research and personhood.

Despite Paulson’s defense of the craft, the Ryan Murphy-produced series has struggled to find its footing. Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story currently holds a 38% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences awarding it an even lower 34%. It stands as the second-lowest rated installment in the franchise, trailing behind last year’s The Ed Gein Story. Undeterred by the reception, Paulson continues her long-standing collaboration with Murphy, recently returning to American Horror Story for its 13th season and preparing for a role in the upcoming Hulu series All’s Fair.