Key Takeaways:
– Netflix’s “Monsters” brings attention to the infamous Menendez brothers, and their parents José and Kitty.
– The brothers, claiming abuse, killed their parents in 1989.
– José was a Cuban immigrant and successful businessman; Kitty was a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom.
– Lyle and Erik Menendez are currently serving life sentences without parole.
The Menendez Brothers and Their Tragic Family History
Netflix’s new series, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez,” delves into the brutal deaths of José Enrique and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez. The well-to-do couple was murdered by their sons, Lyle and Erik, in their Beverly Hills mansion in 1989. José and Kitty Menendez, who were in their 40s at their demise, have a final resting place at Princeton Cemetery in New Jersey, while their infamous sons serve life sentences behind bars.
Unseen Shocks Underneath a Picture-Perfect Family
Lyle, then 21, and Erik, 18, shook the nation when they claimed parental abuse led to their homicidal actions. The 1993 trial drew massive media frenzy with the brothers accusing José of sexual abuse, and pinning allegations of drug addiction and alcoholism on Kitty. The trial ended in 1996 with Lyle and Erik Menendez being sentenced to life without parole.
Interestingly, Erik Menendez confessed their deeds to psychologist Dr. Jerome Oziel during therapy. This was later disclosed to the police by Oziel’s mistress, Judalon Smyth, marking the beginning of the brothers’ downfall.
Parents’ Profession: José and Kitty Menendez
Born in Havana, Cuba, José Menendez immigrated to the U.S. in 1960. Over the years, he climbed the corporate ladder, holding lucrative positions at companies like RCA Records and Hertz, according to Today’s report. He met Kitty, an Illinois native, soon after his move to America, and they married in 1963.
Kitty was an elementary school teacher early in their marriage but quit her profession to become a full-time mother after starting their family. As per IMDb’s records, she dedicated her life to raising their children, Lyle and Erik.
Post-Conviction: Where Are the Menendez Brothers Now?
In the present day, Lyle and Erik Menendez are serving their life sentences at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego County. Imprisoned together, their case still ignites conversations about familial abuse and the justice system’s response to such cases.
Although their parents’ lives were tragically cut short, their story continues to live on, now more prominently via Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez.” As audiences revisit this shocking piece of history, it acts both as a grim reminder of a horrifying case of familial homicide and the necessity for resources and support for potential victims of abuse.
If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) provides confidential, judgment-free support. For those struggling with substance abuse, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).