‘What About The Parents?’: Monsters Creator Ryan Murphy Defends His Show After Erik Menendez’s Criticism

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As a seasoned lifestyle expert with a keen interest in true crime narratives, I find myself captivated by Ryan Murphy‘s approach to storytelling, particularly in his latest series, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story. Having delved into the lives of various individuals throughout my career, I appreciate the intricate balance between fact and perspective that he strives for.

Ryan Murphy recently opened up talking about his series, while also addressing the words of Erik Menendez, who happens to be one of the two brothers on whom the new season of Monsters is based. 

The executive producer of the highly acclaimed Netflix true crime anthology stated that he has a lot to say about the series that was made also from the perspective of the parents. His words came following Erik’s criticism, where he alleged that the facts shown in the series are “inaccurate.”

In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Ryan Murphy explained that after investigating the Menendez case for approximately three years, his team opted for a narrative style reminiscent of the “Rashomon effect.

As a lifestyle expert, I find it crucial to provide a well-rounded narrative, especially when discussing sensitive matters. Initially, there were four key figures in this situation. Regrettably, two of them are no longer with us. However, in our pursuit of delivering an authentic account, we felt a responsibility towards the storytellers and their needs. Consequently, we delved into researching the perspectives of the remaining family members – specifically, the parents – to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances.

He then also stated that the series is 60 to 65 percent focused on the abuse that the brothers had suffered at the hands of their parents. 

Ryan Murphy stated that they approach it meticulously, ensure fairness by giving them a chance in court, encourage open discussions, and portray the events as they understand them from their perspective.

The maker of the series “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story” acknowledged that it might be challenging for certain individuals to see their lives and cases portrayed in such a production.

For those who may not be familiar, Erik and Lyle Menendez were found guilty for murdering their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez. The brothers maintained that they took this drastic action in self-defense, asserting that they had suffered sexual, physical, and emotional abuse at the hands of their parents.

The siblings, Erik and Lyle, were convicted for two counts of premeditated murder and conspiring to commit murder. Subsequently, they received a sentence of spending the rest of their lives behind bars, with no possibility of parole during their incarceration.

In the series “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story,” Nicholas Alexander Chavez portrays Lyle Menendez, while Cooper Koch takes on the role of Erik Menendez.

Additionally, actors Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny portray the characters of the boys’ parents, Jose and Kitty.

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2024-09-25 16:08