Ryan Murphy, the creator of Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, is facing backlash from the family of the infamous brothers who killed their parents in 1989. The family has called the drama “predictable at best” and accused it of being “riddled with mistruths”.
In response, Murphy told Variety that he would like specifics from the family about what they find shocking in the show, as all the events depicted have been presented before. He defended his portrayal of the story, stating that his drama is the first to present it “in one contained ecosystem”.
The Menendez family released a statement expressing their love for Erik and Lyle, calling the character assassination in the show “repulsive”. They also mentioned witnessing “many atrocities” in the brothers’ home, shedding light on the turbulent lives they have endured.
The Menendez brothers were convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to murder in 1996, and sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The show stars Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez as the brothers, and Javier Bardem and Chloe Sevigny as their parents.
Despite the controversy, the series reportedly had 12.3 million views in its first weekend of release. Murphy believes the show has sparked a new conversation about the case and the possibility of a new trial for the brothers.
While Murphy has no interest in speaking to the Menendez brothers, actor Cooper Koch, who plays Erik, has formed a relationship with them and even joined Kim Kardashian in a visit to inmates to discuss prison reform. Kardashian, known for her advocacy work in criminal justice reform, has been praised by Murphy for her efforts.
The drama surrounding Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story continues to captivate audiences and raise questions about justice, rehabilitation, and the power of storytelling.
