This new show monsters created by Ryan Murphy, began streaming on Thursday in Australia and focuses on the shocking 1989 murders of José and Kitty Menéndez, who were killed by their sons, Lyle and Erik. It’s the second season of Netflix’s Monster anthology series, following the 2020 show about Jeffrey Dahmer.
The murders of the Menéndez parents have fascinated true crime fans for years. However, this latest show has stirred controversy. While the brothers claimed they acted in self-defense, the prosecution argued they were after their wealthy father’s fortune.
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Over time, especially with the rise of social media, many have come to sympathize with Lyle and Erik. During the trial, the brothers revealed disturbing stories of abuse by their parents, which some believe justified their actions.
Because of this, some fans have questioned why Netflix chose to label the show Monsters. One viewer said, “I hate that it’s called Monsters. Yes, the brothers did something wrong, but I believe they were justified. Their parents abused them their whole lives, taking away any chance at normalcy.” Another fan added, “We’ll have to see how the show portrays them, but I think it’s called Monsters because of how the media labeled them at the time.”
Despite the controversy, the real-life Menendez brothers were sentenced to life in prison without parole.
The series stars Javier Bardem, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Cooper Koch, and Chloe Sevigny. Nicholas Alexander Chavez, who plays Lyle Menendez, shared in an interview that the show offers various perspectives, allowing viewers to decide for themselves what they think of the brothers’ actions. He said,
“It’s easy to label them as spoiled rich kids, but the reality is far more complicated.”
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Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story offers a deeper look at what might have led to these tragic events, inviting viewers to form their own opinions.