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Ryan Murphy’s Monsters, which covers the controversial Menéndez brothers murder trial, has sparked a divided response among viewers. After Erik and Lyle became prime suspects in the murder of their parents in 1989, they were arrested on two counts of first-degree murder each in 1990. The subsequent high-profile trials had people speculating on the reasons behind the killings, with the brothers claiming they were victims of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of their parents.

The first trial in 1993 ended in a mistrial, leading to a retrial in 1995 where the prosecution objected to evidence of abuse. Lyle refused to take the stand in the second trial, resulting in both brothers being found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole in 1996. They continue to appeal the decision and were granted a new hearing in 2024 after new evidence of alleged sexual abuse by their father emerged. This new evidence prompted the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office to recommend a reduced sentence for Erik and Lyle.

The Monsters series, which premiered in September 2024, faced criticism for its portrayal of an incestuous relationship between the brothers, prompting Erik Menéndez to publicly slam the show. Ryan Murphy defended the series and urged the Menéndez brothers to watch it before forming an opinion. Despite the controversy surrounding Monsters, it is not the only show that covers the Menéndez case. Several other TV shows and documentary specials have highlighted the case, including “Truth and Lies: The Menendez Brothers” and “Law & Order: True Crime – The Menéndez Murders.”

Erik Menéndez participated in the “The Menendez Murders: Erik Tells All” special, offering his perspective on the murders and aftermath in a comprehensive public conversation since the crime. Similarly, the “Law & Order: True Crime – The Menéndez Murders” depicted the murder, investigation, arrest, and trials of the brothers, with Lyle describing the show as surprisingly accurate. “Menendez: Monsters or Misjudged?” and “Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed,” provided further examination of the case and the support the brothers have received. In a petition for retrial, former Menudo member Roy Rosselló alleged that he was drugged and raped by José Menéndez, adding another layer of complexity to the case.

Less than a week after the release of Monsters, Netflix announced “The Menéndez Brothers” documentary, featuring interviews with Lyle and Erik along with footage from conversations with key figures in the case. The documentary is set to be released in October 2024. The continued interest in the Menéndez case highlights the enduring impact and controversy surrounding the murders and subsequent trials. Viewers and critics remain divided on the multiple portrayals of the case in various shows and specials, with each providing a different perspective on the tragic events that unfolded in 1989.

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