Is Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story based on a true story?

Netflix surprised us on Friday when they shared the exciting news that Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story starring Evan Peters would be debuting on Wednesday, Sept. 21. Horror fans had been keeping an eye on this show ever since it was announced, and those who have seen Evan Peters act in titles such as American Horror Story know he’ll give a fantastic performance as the serial killer. This is the perfect release for the spooky season.

If you’re new to the true crime genre or simply aren’t familiar with the story of Jeffrey Dahmer, you might be wondering whether or not what happens in Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is based on real life. Though we haven’t seen the 10-episode series just yet, we do know enough of the backstory to confirm that this is based on a true story.

What is Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story based on?

The upcoming Netflix release is based on the true story of well-known serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. During the years 1978 and 1991, Dahmer murdered at least 17 men and boys in Wisconsin and Ohio. His murders were particularly gruesome as he was involved in cannibalism and necrophilia. It’s a truly shocking story and one that’s had wide coverage in the media already.

Horror fans might’ve seen films like Dahmer (2002) starring Jeremy Renner or My Friend Dahmer (2017) based on the graphic novel of the same name. Actor Seth Gabel portrayed Dahmer in an episode of American Horror Story during the “Hotel” season. Needless to say, Dahmer is one of the most notorious serial killers in American history.

Dahmer’s crimes also received wide attention for the way the authorities poorly handled them. For instance, police agreed to leave a 14-year-old drugged, naked boy in the care of Dahmer after the serial killer claimed he was his boyfriend. The boy was tragically murdered soon after. Justice was served when these police officers were later fired, but nothing could bring back the young man.

Fortunately, Dahmer was eventually caught and was sentenced to multiple life sentences in 1992. He was killed in prison in 1994.

Though Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is a scripted telling of the real-life story, it won’t be for the faint-hearted. All 10 episodes hit Netflix this Wednesday, Sept. 21.