Bates Motel, the A&E psychological horror drama that aired from 2013 to 2017, is a modern masterpiece that reimagines the origin story of Norman Bates, the infamous killer from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. At its core is Freddie Highmore’s mesmerizing performance as a teenage Norman, a role that earned him a People’s Choice Award and critical acclaim for its depth and intensity. Over five seasons, the series explores Norman’s descent into madness, driven by his toxic bond with his mother, Norma (Vera Farmiga). One of the most gripping moments comes in Season 5, Episode 6 (“Marion”), where Norman’s encounter with Marion Crane (Rihanna) in the iconic shower scene takes a shocking twist. This article dives into that unforgettable scene, showcasing Highmore’s brilliance and why Bates Motel is a must-watch for horror and drama fans alike.
Season 5, aired in 2017, brings Bates Motel closest to Psycho’s timeline, with Norman now running the motel alone after tragic events. In “Marion,” aired on March 27, 2017, Marion Crane checks into the Bates Motel, setting up expectations for the famous shower murder. However, the show subverts the classic narrative. In a tense, psychological moment, Norman, battling his “Mother” persona, spies on Marion through a peephole as she showers. Highmore’s performance is electrifying—his face a mix of lust, fear, and torment as he wrestles with murderous impulses. When Marion leans her head on his shoulder later, Highmore’s subtle flinch and wide-eyed panic convey Norman’s inner chaos, culminating in his decision to let her leave alive, defying Psycho’s fate.
This scene, praised by fans on Reddit as “Freddie’s best work,” is a masterclass in suspense. Highmore’s ability to portray Norman’s fractured psyche—shifting from sympathetic teen to potential killer—makes the moment both chilling and heartbreaking. For new viewers, it’s a standalone thrill that invites exploration of Norman’s full journey, while fans of Psycho will love the clever homage. As Vulture noted, Highmore’s Season 5 performance “should’ve earned an Emmy,” cementing his status as a definitive Norman Bates.
Highmore’s portrayal in the shower scene is a testament to his skill in balancing Norman’s duality: a vulnerable boy and a dangerous man. In a 2017 Variety interview, Highmore explained how he leaned into Norman’s complexity, showing “a good side” despite his actions. His physicality—rigid posture, darting eyes, and trembling hands—captures Norman’s struggle against “Mother’s” control, making the audience root for him even as they fear him. The decision to spare Marion flips Psycho’s script, highlighting Norman’s fleeting humanity and adding tragic weight to his arc.
The scene also showcases Bates Motel’s strength: reinventing a classic while staying true to its roots. By setting the story in modern-day White Pine Bay, Oregon, the show blends psychological horror with family drama, exploring themes of mental illness, trauma, and codependency. The shower scene, directed with Hitchcockian tension, pays tribute to Psycho’s visuals while forging a new path, as Highmore discussed in a Hollywood Reporter interview. For viewers, it’s a gripping mix of nostalgia and innovation, perfect for horror buffs and drama enthusiasts.
Freddie Highmore, known for childhood roles in Finding Neverland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, redefined himself as Norman Bates. Starting at age 19, he grew up on Bates Motel, as he told Vulture, evolving from a child star to a multifaceted actor, writer, and director. His preparation was meticulous: he rewatched Psycho each season to channel Anthony Perkins’ mannerisms, while creating a distinct, modern Norman. In “Marion,” Highmore’s ability to embody Norman’s split personality—shifting tones and expressions as “Mother” takes over—is chilling, earning praise from co-star Vera Farmiga, who called him “perfect” for the role.
Highmore’s contributions extended beyond acting. He wrote episodes like Season 4’s “Unfaithful” and Season 5’s “Inseparable,” and directed “The Body,” showcasing his creative range. Fans on X have lauded him as “a beast,” with posts calling his Season 5 performance “indelible.” His chemistry with Farmiga, who plays the manipulative Norma, grounds the show’s emotional core, making scenes like “Marion” unforgettable.
For newcomers, “Marion” is a thrilling entry point, requiring no prior Psycho knowledge, as a Reddit reviewer noted: “It’s an original take with electric performances.” The scene’s viral clips on platforms like YouTube make it shareable, drawing in viewers who love psychological depth or horror twists. Whether you’re into character-driven stories or suspense, Bates Motel delivers, with Highmore as its beating heart.
