Vicky Krieps plays Bridget “Maggie” Sullivan in Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story. Netflix describes Bridget as the Bordens' live-in maid and one of the season's central characters. The historical Bridget should be separated from the show's fictionalized relationship with Lizzie.
Who Was Bridget Sullivan?
Bridget Sullivan was a domestic worker employed in the Borden household in Fall River. She was present in the household around the time of the Aug. 4, 1892 murders and became part of the investigation and trial record.
What Happened on August 4, 1892?
Andrew and Abby Borden were killed at their home that day. Bridget's movements and testimony formed part of the surviving account of the household's activities.
Did Bridget and Lizzie Have a Romantic Relationship?
Monster presents a romantic relationship between Lizzie and Bridget. The historical record does not establish that Lizzie and Bridget were lovers, so that storyline should be treated as a dramatic invention rather than documented history.
Bridget's Place in the Investigation
Bridget was questioned as investigators reconstructed the household timeline. Historical fact checks note that she was not established as the killer and had an alibi for the murders.
Why Monster Changes Bridget's Story
The series uses Bridget to explore Lizzie's isolation, sexuality, power and rebellion. Netflix's official description frames the relationship as part of the fictional drama, while the historical record provides a much more limited account.
Quick Answer
Was Bridget Sullivan really Lizzie Borden's lover? There is no reliable historical evidence establishing that. The romance shown in Monster is fictionalized.
Sources
Netflix Tudum cast guide · Netflix Tudum: The True Story · Library of Congress
Fact-check note
This article distinguishes the Netflix dramatization from documented history. Lizzie Borden was acquitted in 1893; claims about guilt, private relationships, motives and events not established by surviving records are described as fictionalized or disputed rather than settled fact.
Netflix Tudum: The True Story · Netflix Tudum: Ending Explained · PEOPLE: Fact vs Fiction · PEOPLE: Emma/Lizzie Fact Check
Related: Lizzie Borden and Bridget Sullivan in Monster: History vs the Netflix Story
Related: Lizzie and Emma Borden: The Real Sister Relationship Behind Monster
