Rosie O’Donnell on Becoming a ‘Big Sister’ to the Menendez Brothers, Believes They Could Be Released From Prison in the ‘Next 30 Days’

As a longtime advocate for justice and a fellow Californian, I have always admired the resilience and determination of Lyle and Erik Menendez. Their story is one that has captivated me since its beginning, and I feel honored to be able to support them in whatever small way I can.

30 years back, Rosie O’Donnell got a letter from Lyle Menendez, who had noticed her on “Larry King Live”. In the letter, he shared his belief that Erik, his brother, was telling the truth about being abused by their father, as per Erik’s own claims.

Reminiscing about an incident, O’Donnell shares, ‘I had lunch with Barbara Walters and our publicist Cindy Berger, and I told Barbara, ‘You won’t believe this, but guess who wrote to me—Lyle Menendez.’ Barbara responded, ‘Disregard him, he’s a murderer. He’s very manipulative.’

Walters had previously interviewed Lyle and his brother Erik in prison for “20/20.”

After taking her counsel, O’Donnell acted upon it. However, two years ago, when a documentary emerged revealing fresh evidence suggesting that Lyle and Erik had been abused by their father, O’Donnell publicly expressed solidarity with the siblings through social media and various news outlets. “I received a call from Lyle’s wife – I wasn’t aware he was married – requesting if I could speak to him,” O’Donnell recounted. “He contacted me on Mother’s Day last year.

At present, Lyle and Erik are imprisoned with no chance of release, having been convicted of the murder of their parents, Jose and Kitty, back in 1989.

O’Donnell and Lyle quickly formed a close bond. “We chat frequently,” O’Donnell shared. “I promised I would use whatever remaining influence I have to shed light on their situation. I told them, ‘The 90s are long gone, I’m no longer part of that show.’ I believe if you feel passionate about an issue and aim to aid society, you can utilize your voice because abused children at home lack a voice. It’s the responsibility of those who were once those children to speak for them.

Speaking with emotion, O’Donnell recalls her visit to San Diego last year to meet Lyle in prison. “I embraced Lyle,” she shares, struggling to hold back tears. “Soon after, Erik joined me for a hug and whispered ‘Thank you for loving my brother’ in my ear. This moment was incredibly touching for me.

A day following the announcement of a court date for both Erik and Lyle, in relation to accusations they faced as children concerning their father’s alleged abuse, I had a conversation with O’Donnell. Meanwhile, the Netflix series by Ryan Murphy titled “Monsters: The Story of Lyle and Erik Menendez” is generating renewed attention towards this case.

What was your reaction when you heard about the D.A. and the new court hearing?

I got a little bit of a heads up from the guys and their lawyers. So I knew was coming. I was beyond excited. I knew that from having spoken to them that they were both afraid to hope it could be what exactly it turned out to be. As soon as the news dropped, I sent them a text and said, “It’s really happening. Now, put that smile on your face. Here we go.” This is what they’ve been waiting for for so many decades, and it’s about time. I think that we, as a society, it’s time that we said, “We made a mistake, and we didn’t understand what we understand today.” It’s kind of a miracle, but so deserving. I’m so thrilled for them.

When was the last time you spoke to Lyle?

Last night.

How are they doing?

They’re filled with enthusiasm and joy. I joined about two years ago, cheering them on. Back then, I assured them, “You’ll escape from this situation.” At first, they didn’t fully trust me, but I have faith that justice will prevail. Despite my assurance, they remain hesitant to believe it will come true.

Did you always think this day would come?

The reason I took this action was due to the emergence of new evidence. Back then, in 1989 and the early ’90s, our society wasn’t prepared to discuss this topic at all. However, over the past 35 years, as a nation, we’ve faced numerous challenges. As a result, we now recognize that boys are indeed sexually abused at rates comparable to girls. Therefore, it is a misconception to believe that men don’t commit such acts against young boys.

When do you think they will be released?

Sooner than later.

Ryan Murphy told me yesterday that he thinks they could be out by Christmas.

I’d find it unusual if it happened within the next 30 days. I believe they won’t have to wait much longer. Ryan, in a peculiar way, helped them but also hindered them. [O’Donnell previously criticized “Monsters” as being inaccurate.] Ryan is an accomplished filmmaker with a unique approach and signature. However, I’m not convinced that this specific situation or true-life story was ideal for his style.

As a dedicated cinephile, I couldn’t help but notice how the narrative shone brighter on the central mystery, potentially propelling it further.

I believe all those who highlighted the issue deserve recognition, even “Monsters.” I’m pleased that it was brought up. I won’t speculate about its impact. All I can say is, from my perspective, it could have been presented more precisely.

Have you become sort of a surrogate mother to them?

I find myself playing a protective role, similar to an older sister. Lyle is widely respected among California’s prison population. This is undeniably true. If he were the kind of volatile individual who was constantly causing trouble and acting recklessly, would he have taken on roles like hospice care for terminally ill prisoners? Would he have consistently managed to avoid disciplinary actions for ten years straight? It’s highly unlikely that someone could conceal such deep-seated mental issues for 35 years. The fact that they both exhibit such extraordinary behavior is quite compelling evidence of their character.

What kind of impact do you think Kim Kardashian advocating for their release has had?

I think it’s fantastic. She’s one of the most famous people in the world and she demands a crazy amount of media attention. I’ve never met her. I don’t know her. I think it’s great that she champions some causes the way she does, and more people should do that when they believe in something. I think she has helped the district attorney come to this conclusion right now. There have been many postponements since they put this in over a year. They’ve had this folder and all the evidence and all the facts for a year, but it wasn’t until after Ryan Murphy and Kim Kardashian — to give them both credit and in whatever way they want — that it happened. So bravo to them.

Are you going to reach out to Kim?

I wouldn’t know how to do that. Maybe I can call Kathy Griffin to get her number [Laughs.]

If or when Lyle and Erik are released, will you be waiting outside the prison for them?

If it’s necessary for me to attend, I’m more than willing. However, I don’t wish to draw attention away from their special moment. Their family has eagerly anticipated this reunion for decades. With around 70 relatives, including cousins and other members of their mother’s family, this gathering is significant for them. I’d be happy to catch up with them or even take them out for dinner. This transition will undoubtedly be challenging given their long imprisonment of 35 years. They will likely require extensive therapy to help them adjust to life outside prison.

Where will you take them to dinner?

I’ve often mentioned to Lyle that I plan to treat him to a meal at Nobu since he considers it a must-visit spot. At times, I’d chat with him late at night and tell him about my lunch outings at Nobu with friends. I would say, “Pal, once you’re free, I’ll take you there.” During our recent conversation, he asked, “When are we dining at Nobu?” I replied, “Sooner than you expect.

This Q&A has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

2024-10-05 04:47

Rosie O’Donnell on Becoming a ‘Big Sister’ to the Menendez Brothers, Believes They Could Be Released From Prison in the ‘Next 30 Days’

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