The Shocking Truth — Season 1, Episode 7: The Shocking Truth: Psycho

Episode synopsis

On the surface, he looks perfectly harmless. But behind those innocent looking eyes is the soul of a killer. Norman Bates from Psycho is one of the most memorable psychopaths in movie history. But the inspiration for the character was all too real. Ed Gein was known as "the Butcher of Plainfield" a sadistic psychopath who made horrifying souvenirs from the body parts of his victims. His crimes were committed against the living - and the dead. Like Norman Bates, he developed an unhealthy bond with his mother. And his devotion to her - even after her death - led him to commit unspeakable acts that shocked a nation.

About The Shocking Truth

This compelling documentary series digs deep into notorious real-life murders and paranormal events and explores how Hollywood turned them into its most memorable thrillers.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1The Shocking Truth: The Silence of the Lambs
• E2The Shocking Truth: The Amityville Horror
• E3The Shocking Truth: The Exorcist
• E4The Shocking Truth: Goodfellas
• E5The Shocking Truth: Zodiac
• E6The Shocking Truth: The Conjuring
• E8The Shocking Truth: Foxcatcher
• E9The Shocking Truth: Natural Born Killers
• E10The Shocking Truth: Fargo
• E11The Shocking Truth: Monster
• E12The Shocking Truth: Jaws