Monsters producer David McMillan has addressed the backlash surrounding the Netflix series, asserting that it strives for factual accuracy despite criticisms from the Menendez family.
This latest chapter of Ryan Murphy’s true crime anthology centers on the infamous murders committed by Erik and Lyle Menendez.
While the series closely follows the actual events, including a graphic depiction of the murder scene, it also takes creative liberties, particularly in its portrayal of the relationship between Erik and Lyle, which is shown to be incestuous.
McMillan emphasized the commitment to authenticity, stating to Variety, “We are talking about real people… many of them are still alive. We want to ensure that our narrative is grounded in the facts.”
He further remarked, “We aimed to present various perspectives so the audience could form their own conclusions.”
Other team members echoed McMillan’s sentiments regarding the show’s truthful narrative. Javier Bardem, who portrays the brothers’ father, underscored that the series addresses the “consequences of trauma.”
“Unless [it is] properly addressed and healed, it’s going to have a huge, horrible, dramatic impact on generations to come,” the actor asserted.
Erik Menendez responded to the series through his wife, Tammi, condemning the streaming platform and Murphy for perpetuating “horrible and blatant lies” about his actions.
Other family members of the Menendez brothers have expressed their outrage on social media, labeling the show as “pure evil,” particularly for its portrayal of Erik and Lyle’s supposed romantic feelings for each other.
Nonetheless, actor Nicholas Alexander Chavez, who plays Lyle, defends the portrayal of the brothers, telling Variety, “This show evokes such conflicting emotions. That complexity is what has kept this case captivating for so long.”
Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story is available for streaming on Netflix now.
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