‘Monsters’ Cast Reacts to Controversy Over Homoerotic Brother Scenes; Erik Menendez Actor Cooper Koch ‘Does Not’ Believe the Siblings Were Incestuous

As a dedicated fan of Ryan Murphy’s captivating narratives and a long-time follower of true crime stories, I find myself deeply immersed in the controversy surrounding “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”. While the portrayal of the brothers’ relationship has sparked heated discussions among viewers, I believe it is essential to remember that this series is not a documentary but a dramatization.


The creative team responsible for “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” produced by Ian Brennan and Ryan Murphy, have addressed criticisms about a controversial portrayal in their show, suggesting an incestuous relationship between brothers Erik and Lyle Menendez. Specifically, the scene where both brothers are shown showering together has sparked controversy.

When inquired about the potential romantic undertones between the brothers in the series, Nicholas Chavez, who plays Lyle, chose to let the production convey its own message. He commented, “It’s an intriguing query, and it was definitely a topic we delved into during our work on this project. However, I believe that this is a matter that is most appropriately addressed by Ryan and the masterminds behind the show.

Previously, Ryan Murphy, one of the series creators, explained the depiction of their relationship as stemming from an interpretation developed during the televised court case of the Menendez brothers’ murder trial.

Murphy stated, “By tuning in to the program, you’ll see various perspectives and theories from numerous individuals connected to the case being portrayed. Notably, Dominick Dunne [depicted by Nathan Lane] wrote several articles advocating for this theory. We aim to convey his viewpoint accurately, and we fulfilled our duty to represent all aspects of it.

As a devoted admirer of Nathan Lane’s work, I can tell you that, even though he’s off the grid when it comes to social media, he’s caught wind from the old-fashioned grapevine that his portrayal of Dunne in “Monsters” has stirred quite a buzz!

The conversation at Chateau Marmont revolves around Dominick’s hypotheses regarding the brothers’ mysterious circumstances, he explains. Originally, this scene was longer, spanning 20 pages, and delved deeper into his theories. At one instance, Dominick proposes an idea suggesting that there might have been an incestuous relationship between the two brothers. However, he clarifies that this theory has no connection with their father, José, and that’s what their mother, Kitty, was aware of. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that Dominick is merely speculating; he isn’t confirming this as the truth. He offers this hypothesis as another possible reason for the brothers’ actions. It’s crucial to remember that the show is a dramatization, not a documentary. As Ryan has mentioned, the series presents various perspectives on this case, including scenes depicting Eric and Lyle discussing their abuse at the hands of their father. In essence, the show provides numerous viewpoints and theories about what transpired. Ultimately, only the brothers hold the truth, but I believe the show is exceptionally well-written and superbly acted by everyone involved.

Cooper Koch, who plays Erik Menendez, is unsurprised by the resistance against suggestions that the siblings were romantically involved.

Koch acknowledged that the story was highly contentious, likely causing upset and impact among viewers. However, he stressed the importance of considering the context and understanding that we’re depicting a scene as perceived by someone else. It may not represent the actual events. After all, Dominick Dunne simply offers his perspective on the matter, and there are other parts of the story where various viewpoints are presented to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

He added, “My belief is that the purpose of this production is to combine various viewpoints and give the audience the role as jurors. In the finale, each spectator makes their own judgment based on what they’ve seen. I find this method of narrating a tale and storytelling in general quite intriguing.

Koch firmly stated that he doesn’t believe the brothers were involved in an incestuous relationship. He expressed his opinion that this idea isn’t accurate, stating, “I don’t think it’s true.” Furthermore, he believes the show did not aim to confirm or refute this theory; instead, it was a speculation that emerged from one character within the series due to their role in it. Koch supports Eric wholeheartedly and trusts his testimony, believing it to be the truth.

As a devoted fan, I’d like to rephrase a point made by Chloë Sevigny, who brilliantly brings Kitty Menendez to life in the series. In one pivotal scene, her character unexpectedly encounters her sons together in the shower. When probed about the hints of homosexuality woven into the show, she emphasized the actors’ unwavering dedication to faithfully portraying the writers’ artistic vision.

She mentioned that the creators and showrunners prioritized ensuring Nicholas and Cooper felt at ease, only asking them to participate in actions they were comfortable with. There were always people ready to safeguard them on set. She asked if she should assist off-camera, or if her presence was unnecessary. Everything was designed to make them feel secure, including the use of intimacy coaches. The boys were given the freedom to stop and leave whenever they wished, yet they were so dedicated to their roles that they were almost willing to do anything. It was awe-inspiring to observe their dedication to the characters and the story, and she felt her role was simply to offer support.

The series “Monsters,” which debuted on Netflix in September, has sparked much debate, even receiving criticism from Erik Menendez. Through an official statement shared via his wife Tammi Menendez’s Twitter account, Erik, currently incarcerated in San Diego, expressed his disapproval: “I had thought we had progressed beyond the falsehoods and damaging characterizations of Lyle, only to find a distorted portrayal of him based on malicious and obvious lies pervasive within the show. I can’t help but suspect this was done intentionally. It is with great sadness that I say, I believe Ryan Murphy lacks the innocence and accuracy about our lives to have created this without ill intentions.

As a dedicated moviegoer, I’d say “Monsters” is all about the gripping tale of the Menendez Brothers, who tragically took their parents’ lives back in 1989. These brothers turned into media sensations in the early ’90s when their high-profile murder trial made headlines across America. Their tumultuous journey through our justice system was nothing short of harrowing, ultimately leading to Erik and Lyle Menendez being convicted on two counts of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. On July 2, 1996, they were sentenced to life in prison without the chance of parole.

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2024-09-26 01:18