Monsters Actor Cooper Koch Details Meeting Erik Menendez in Prison

Monsters Actor Cooper Koch Details Meeting Erik Menendez in Prison

As a lifestyle expert with a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the arts, I must admit that Cooper Koch’s dedication to his craft is truly commendable. His emotional investment in portraying Erik Menendez is palpable, and it’s clear that he genuinely believes in the brothers’ story.


Cooper Koch is sticking by his character. 

The actor from “Monsters” recently shared insights about portraying Erik Menendez and his experience meeting the 53-year-old during a visit to the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego, California, after the October 7 launch of the Netflix series.

Cooper explained to Deadline that getting ready to portray the character was essentially like getting ready to encounter him personally. This is because, as I delved into playing him, I found myself genuinely caring for him deeply.

In addition to his acting role, the performer strongly supports the perspective presented by Erik and Lyle Menendez regarding their story. Although both brothers are serving life sentences without parole for the 1989 murders of their parents José Menendez and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez, they claim that the acts were committed in self-defense due to years of physical and sexual abuse by their father. Presently, they are actively campaigning for a reevaluation of their sentences.

Cooper went on to say, “I truly trust him, I find him incredible. After working with him, meeting him in person was incredibly fulfilling, unique, and one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had throughout my lifetime.

And this isn’t the first time the 28-year-old has shown support for Erik and his older brother. 

Cooper expressed his sincere hope to Variety in September that they will be granted parole, leading to a fantastic remainder of their lives. They were 18 and 21 when the crime was committed, and at that time, it was challenging for many to accept the possibility of male-on-male sexual abuse, especially between a father and son.

Monsters Actor Cooper Koch Details Meeting Erik Menendez in Prison

But despite Cooper’s support, Erik is not exactly in support of Cooper’s portrayal of him, nor of Nicholas Alexander Chavez playing Lyle in Ryan Murphy’s version of events. 

Erik expressed disappointment upon learning that Netflix’s misleading depiction of the crimes we’ve faced set back the painful truths significantly,” said his wife, Tammie Menendez, on X (formerly Twitter). He also commented, “It’s disheartening to realize that one individual with influence can erase years of progress in revealing the impact of childhood trauma.

Despite Erik’s unfavorable opinions about the Netflix series, the co-creator of “American Horror Story” doesn’t believe these criticisms are justified.

Ryan mentioned to The Hollywood Reporter recently, “The Menendez brothers ought to be sending me bouquets. Their story has gained attention again after three decades, not just in this country, but globally. There’s a surge of curiosity about their lives and the case. I can confirm that numerous individuals have offered assistance for them, inspired by my series and our work.

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2024-10-21 18:17