Aaron Stampler is a fictional character from the 1996 film Primal Fear, directed by Gregory Hoblit. He is portrayed by actor Edward Norton, who received critical acclaim for his performance. Aaron is a young altar boy accused of murdering a prominent priest, and his character is central to the film's legal drama. In the story, Aaron presents as a troubled individual with a history of abuse, which complicates the case. His defense attorney, Martin Vail, played by Richard Gere, seeks to uncover the truth behind the murder and Aaron's psychological state, leading to unexpected twists in the plot.