‘Monsters’ Star Cooper Koch Says He Recently Spoke With Erik Menendez

Cooper Koch, known for his role as Erik Menendez in “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” recently shared details about his conversation with the real-life Erik Menendez following a significant legal development. A Los Angeles judge had recently decided to reduce the life sentences of the Menendez brothers, a decision that brought immense relief to both Koch and Erik Menendez.

During a “Monsters” For Your Consideration event, Koch expressed his gratitude for the resentencing and revealed that Erik Menendez was equally thrilled about the news. Koch had spoken to Erik Menendez the day before and learned about the latter’s plans for the future, which included advocating for change within the prison system. Erik Menendez expressed his desire to work towards greater support for individuals serving life without parole sentences, emphasizing his commitment to making a positive impact on the system.

Koch highlighted Erik Menendez’s hope that, if released, people would look back in ten years and acknowledge the right decision of granting them freedom. The recent ruling offers a glimmer of hope for the Menendez brothers, who have been incarcerated for 35 years following the tragic murder of their parents in 1989.

The decision to reduce the Menendez brothers’ sentences from life without parole to 50 years to life was made by L.A. County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic. This change was possible due to California’s Youthful Offender law, which allows individuals under the age of 26 at the time of their crime to be eligible for parole after serving a specified period.

The public’s interest in the Menendez case was reignited with the release of Ryan Murphy’s “Monsters” series, shedding new light on the events surrounding the murder and subsequent trial. District Attorney George Gascón initially supported the reduced sentences, citing the brothers’ rehabilitation over the years. However, his successor Nathan Hochman reversed this stance, emphasizing that the brothers had not taken responsibility for their actions.

Despite conflicting opinions on the case, Koch remains supportive of Erik and Lyle Menendez, having visited them in prison alongside Kim Kardashian. He described the brothers as upstanding individuals who have made significant contributions within the prison community, including teaching classes and leading initiatives to improve prison facilities.

Koch’s interactions with Erik Menendez have provided valuable insights into the latter’s mindset and aspirations for the future. The actor’s connection with the real-life figure has added depth to his portrayal in “Monsters” and strengthened his commitment to advocating for justice and reform within the legal system.