Stuff You Should Know

Ed Gein: The Serial Killer's Serial Killer

11 snips
Sep 3, 2019
Dive into the eerie world of Ed Gein, the man behind some of horror's most infamous characters. Discover his troubled upbringing marked by an overbearing mother and abusive father. Uncover the horrifying details of his gruesome crimes, including the chilling murder of Bernice Worden. Explore the dark legacy he left behind, shaping pop culture with infamous characters like Norman Bates. The story also delves into his psychological complexities and the sensationalized media that emerged from his notorious life.
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ANECDOTE

Gein's Unexpected Babysitting

  • Ed Gein babysat children, shockingly.
  • He inspired numerous deranged characters in films like Psycho, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Silence of the Lambs.
INSIGHT

Gein's Troubled Upbringing

  • Ed Gein's upbringing was far from normal, marked by an abusive alcoholic father and a fanatically religious, overbearing mother.
  • His mother, Augusta, viewed their town as a "sinkhole of filth" and moved the family to Plainfield.
ANECDOTE

Plainfield Hardships

  • The Gein family's move to Plainfield worsened their situation due to poor farming, unfriendly neighbors, and Ed's social isolation.
  • Ed was bullied at school for his appearance and speech, further contributing to his unstable mental state.
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