Explosive Revelations in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story Could Free Brothers After 35 Years

New Netflix Series Reopens Infamous Menendez Case: Could Lyle and Erik Finally Be Free?

As Ryan Murphy’s latest true-crime drama, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, debuts on Netflix, the notorious case is back in the spotlight, with new evidence potentially exonerating the brothers after 35 years in prison.

On August 20, 1989, Lyle and Erik entered their Beverly Hills home and fatally shot their parents, José and Kitty Menéndez, sparking a sensational trial that captivated the nation. The brothers claimed they acted out of fear, alleging a lifetime of sexual abuse at the hands of their father. Despite these claims, they were convicted of murder in 1996 and sentenced to life without parole.

Now, journalist Robert Rand, who has covered the case extensively, has re-released his book with new findings. These revelations, including testimony from another alleged abuse victim and a letter from Erik expressing fear of their father, have led their attorneys to file a habeas petition to vacate the brothers' convictions.

Rand argues that societal views on abuse have evolved since the '90s, and many believe the Menendez brothers deserve a new trial focused on their victimization rather than their crime. As the drama unfolds on screen, the brothers—now aged 53 and 56—may be closer to justice than ever before.

Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story premieres on Netflix on September 19.