The Menendez Brothers Criticize Netflix’s ‘Monsters’ for Inaccurate Depictions

Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of the 1989 murders of their parents, have raised concerns about their portrayal in the Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. The brothers claim the show omits key aspects of their case, distorting the circumstances that led to their infamous crime.

(Netflix/ Monster's The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story)

At the ages of 21 and 18, Lyle and Erik fatally shot their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home on August 20, 1989. Their defense argued the killings were motivated by years of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse at the hands of their father. After two trials, the Menendez brothers were convicted in 1996 and sentenced to life without parole.

With the release of Monsters Season 2, the brothers’ story has once again captured public attention. This true-crime anthology series, created by Ryan Murphy, explores controversial real-life events, much like its first season, which chronicled the story of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. Murphy anticipated backlash, given the divisive nature of the case, but the show’s interpretation of the brothers' relationship has sparked new outrage.

A particularly contentious detail involves the show's suggestion of an incestuous relationship between Lyle and Erik, a narrative that both the brothers and their supporters have strongly denied. Many viewers, as well as those directly connected to the case, have criticized the show for misrepresenting facts, further sensationalizing the story.

Series creator Ryan Murphy is no stranger to controversy. Addressing the outcry over Monsters, he acknowledged that such reactions were expected but refrained from engaging directly with the Menendez brothers. Murphy emphasized that while some actors like Cooper Koch (who portrays Erik) have developed personal connections with the brothers, he himself had no intention of meeting them.

Murphy’s comments on Kim Kardashian’s involvement in advocating for the brothers also raised eyebrows. He praised Kardashian for her prison reform efforts and her direct communication with Lyle and Erik, stating, “I believe in the work she’s doing. But I don’t know what I would say to them.”