Ryan Murphy Casts Dave Franco as Lead in “Monster: The Luigi Mangione Story”

Ryan Murphy, the mastermind behind acclaimed works like American Horror Story and Glee, has made waves by announcing Dave Franco as the lead in the next installment of the crime anthology series Monster. Titled Monster: The Luigi Mangione Story, the show promises to delve into the life of one of America’s most infamous criminals.

The Journey of the “Monster” Series

Debuting with Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, the series became a global phenomenon for its unique approach to exploring the real-life stories of controversial figures. The show not only focuses on the crimes committed but also delves into the psychology, motives, and societal impact of these individuals.

The newest installment, The Luigi Mangione Story, will center on the life and crimes of Luigi Mangione—an enigmatic yet notorious figure known for a string of mysterious murders and a complex criminal network. It offers audiences a fresh, chilling narrative told through Murphy’s signature storytelling style.

Why Dave Franco Was Chosen

Dave Franco, recognized for his versatile performances in Now You See Me and The Disaster Artist, has proven his ability to portray a range of characters. This time, taking on the role of Luigi Mangione, he faces the challenge of embodying a complex character who exudes both charm and terror.

Murphy shared his thoughts:

“Dave is the perfect choice. He has the ability to bring the depth and emotional range necessary to portray a character like Luigi—intelligent, captivating, yet profoundly dark.”

The casting of Franco has been met with widespread support from fans and critics alike, with many anticipating that he will surpass expectations and leave a lasting mark with this performance.

What to Expect in the New Installment

Monster: The Luigi Mangione Story is set in 1970s New York, where Luigi Mangione runs a clandestine crime empire. The series will explore not only his heinous crimes but also his intricate relationships with family, allies, and adversaries.

A key focus of the story will be Luigi’s internal struggle as he tries to balance his thirst for power with the haunting guilt of his actions. This approach promises to add emotional depth, making viewers feel both horrified and empathetic toward the protagonist.

Production Team and Anticipation

Ryan Murphy continues as the creative lead, joined by a team of accomplished writers who have collaborated with him on past projects. Additionally, the show will feature Emmy-winning cinematographers, ensuring visually striking scenes that elevate the storytelling.

Murphy also revealed that The Luigi Mangione Story will emphasize psychological and societal themes, highlighting greed, betrayal, and the far-reaching consequences of crime on communities. This isn’t just a crime drama but a reflection of America’s darker societal aspects in the 1970s.

Public Reaction

The announcement immediately sparked lively discussions on social media. Fans expressed high expectations for Dave Franco’s portrayal, while others were intrigued by how Ryan Murphy would bring Luigi Mangione’s lesser-known story to life.

One Twitter user wrote:

“I can’t wait to see Dave Franco take on such a dark role. He’s going to blow us away!”

Meanwhile, critics began analyzing the potential of the new installment, predicting it could be one of Murphy’s finest works if it balances the criminal narrative with psychological depth.

Release Date and Expectations

Monster: The Luigi Mangione Story is slated to premiere on Netflix in late 2025. Featuring a talented cast and a promising storyline, it is already being considered one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Ryan Murphy and Dave Franco has generated enormous excitement. Monster: The Luigi Mangione Story is not just about a criminal—it’s an exploration of the darkest corners of the human soul. Will this installment surpass the legacy of its predecessors? The answer awaits when the show officially airs.