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Ryan Murphy’s latest Netflix series, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” has ignited a firestorm of controversy and public debate. Premiering on September 19, 2024, the series delves into the infamous case of the Menendez brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, in 1989.
The series has been met with harsh criticism from the Menendez family, who have labeled it a “grotesque shockadrama”. Erik Menendez’s wife, Tammi, released a statement on social media condemning the show for its portrayal of the events. In response, Murphy defended the series, asserting that it presents the case comprehensively and challenges viewers to consider complex questions about justice and rehabilitation.
Murphy believes that “Monsters” is the best thing that has happened to the Menendez brothers in 30 years, as it has brought renewed attention to their case. He argues that if the trial were held today, the brothers might receive a lesser charge due to the evidence of abuse that was not admitted in their original trial. Murphy also criticized the behavior of the male jurors in the second trial, suggesting that homophobia and a refusal to accept the possibility of sexual abuse against men influenced the verdict.
Cooper Koch, who portrays Erik Menendez, has established a connection with the real Erik, even visiting him in prison with Kim Kardashian to discuss prison reform. Unlike Koch, Murphy has no interest in meeting the brothers, stating that he prefers to focus on the broader societal questions raised by their case.
The series features a star-studded cast, including Javier Bardem as José Menendez, Chloë Sevigny as Kitty Menendez, Nicholas Alexander Chavez as Lyle Menendez, and Cooper Koch as Erik Menendez. The performances have been praised, but the series has also faced criticism for its runtime, inconsistent tone, and the depiction of the Menendez brothers’ relationship.
“Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” is the second installment in Murphy’s true crime anthology series, following “Monsters: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”. The series has reignited public debate about the Menendez case and broader issues of justice and rehabilitation, with many viewers questioning whether the brothers deserve a new trial and a chance at rehabilitation.
As the series continues to spark conversations, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to any legal changes for the Menendez brothers. For now, “Monsters” serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding true crime stories.
