Week Three of JPiC’s “Inktober 2026” spotlights The Legend of Lizzie Borden.
After nine seasons of playing America’s favorite witch, Elizabeth Montgomery was looking to explore more challenging roles. In 1972, she tried her hand at a sort-of sequel to the popular theatrical film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Taking over the role played by Katherine Ross on the big screen, this made-for-television endeavor showed Elizabeth as a feisty, determined “Etta Place” seeking a reunion with her beloved Sundance in Mrs. Sundance. 1974 brought A Case of Rape, another made-for-television drama, with Elizabeth giving a brutally realistic portrayal of a rape victim. The role earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination.
Later in 1974, Elizabeth brought the notorious Lizzie Borden to life in a surprisingly well-made take on the New England spinster accused (but acquitted) of murdering her parents. The made-for-television movie co-starred Fritz Weaver, Katherine Helmond, Ed Flanders and Hayden Rorke, but it was Elizabeth Montgomery’s captivating performance that made the movie so memorable. The presentation of the actual murders showing a strategically-shot nude Lizzie wielding a hatchet was unforgettable in the minds of viewers — especially 14-year old boys. The spattered blood, the look of frustrated anger on Elizabeth’s face and her blasé, post-killing attitude earned her additional recognition from the Emmy Award board. Although it was a made-for-television movie, The Legend of Lizzie Borden was released theatrically in Europe where it ran for four additional minutes and featured heretofore hidden nudity.