Ryan Murphy Gets Called a ‘Monster’ by The Menendez Brothers’ Family for Wrongful Depiction

While many people are fascinated by stories about notorious criminals, it’s important to remember that sensationalism can often overshadow the pain and respect owed to the victims and their families. The Menendez family expressed their anger, saying the brothers have been “victimized by this grotesque shock-drama.” They concluded their open letter with a sharp rebuke: “It’s sad that Ryan Murphy, Netflix, and all others involved in this series fail to grasp the impact of years of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Perhaps, in the end, Monsters is all about Ryan Murphy.”

This is the official response from Joan VanderMolen (Erik’s Aunt) and the Menendez Family to the Netflix Series” “Monsters, the Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” and to Ryan Murphy.#Menendez #NetflixMonsters #RyanMurphy pic.twitter.com/o7KEOEoYwr

— Tammi Menendez (@TammiMenendez1) September 26, 2024

Murphy, best known for his work on American Horror Story and American Crime Story, has gained significant attention, especially after the success of Dahmer, the series about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. However, the decision to include the Menendez brothers in Monsters, alongside other notorious figures, has sparked controversy. Critics argue that equating the Menendez brothers, who suffered years of abuse, with serial killers may have crossed a line.

Despite the backlash, Murphy has shown no signs of apologizing. He brushed off the family’s criticism, calling their response “predictable at best.” He then continued to say: “I find it interesting because I’d like specifics on what they think is shocking. It’s not like we’re making things up. This information has been presented before. We’re just the first to put it all together in one contained ecosystem. What’s grotesque about that? The family keeps saying ‘lies after lies,’ but they never clarify what those lies are.”

In fact, Murphy believes the series is the best thing that has happened to the Menendez brothers in 30 years, as they are now being “talked about by millions of people worldwide.”

He went on to point out that a documentary about the Menendez brothers is also set to premiere on Netflix in two weeks. “The interesting part is that it’s raising questions: Should they get a new trial? Should they be released? What happens in our society? Should people be locked away for life with no chance of rehabilitation? We’re asking difficult questions, and this show is giving the brothers another trial in the court of public opinion. From what I’ve seen, this has opened up the possibility of revisiting the evidence they claim to have.”

When asked if he had any desire to meet the Menendez brothers, Murphy replied, “I have no interest. What would I say? I already know their perspective.”

‘Monsters’ season 2 has become very controversial, with even the real Erik Menendez complaining about how false the story was portrayed on screen, implying an incestuous relationship.

Menendez Brothers Incestuous Relationship in Netflix Series Was an “Obligation” Says Ryan Murphy

In response, Ryan Murphy defended the series during an interview by E! News emphasizing the extensive research and multiple perspectives presented in the show. He pointed out that a significant portion of the series focuses on the abuse the brothers claimed to have suffered at the hands of their parents.

Murphy stated, “We had an obligation as storytellers to also try and put in their perspective based on our research, which we did.”

Murphy also addressed the controversial depiction of a homoerotic and incestuous relationship between the brothers, explaining that it was based on theories and viewpoints that emerged during the trial. He stressed the importance of presenting all sides of the story, even if it is uncomfortable for some viewers.

“What the show is doing is presenting the points of view and theories from so many people who were involved in the case. Dominick Dunne wrote several articles talking about that theory,” he said.