Ed Gein vs. Hollywood: How One Real Killer Inspired Psycho, Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and Silence of the Lambs

Ed Gein is the most influential killer in horror film history — and most people do not know the half of it. The Fear Archive examines the Butcher of Plainfield and the full scope of his cinematic legacy. In 1957, police entered Ed Gein's farmhouse in Plainfield, Wisconsin, and found something that defied description. Masks made of human skin. Bowls carved from skulls. Furniture upholstered in flesh. Gein was not a prolific killer — but what he did to his victims' remains became the template for Norman Bates, Leatherface, and Buffalo Bill. Tonight Amanda and Mike ask the question this legacy demands: what does it mean that our most beloved horror villains are all one man's nightmare reassembled? Hosted by Amanda Kagiwada and Michael Ryan Assip. Executive produced by Cassie Jozefov. A Violet Hour Media production. LISTENER WARNING: This program includes discussion of real-world violence and other subject matter that may be upsetting for some listeners. Please proceed with caution. Popular Topics Include: Ed Gein, Psycho 1960, Norman Bates, Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Leatherface, Silence of the Lambs, Buffalo Bill, Butcher of Plainfield, Plainfield Wisconsin, horror film true story, true crime horror podcast, Fear Archive, horror podcast, Violet Hour Media, real killer behind horror movies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices