Key Takeaways:
– José Menendez began his career as an accountant before becoming a successful businessman in Hollywood.
– At Carolco Pictures, Menendez helped to pull the film studio out of debt, creating their affluent lifestyle.
– Erik and Lyle Menendez shot their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, in August 1989, alleging a history of abuse as their motive.
A Glimpse Into José Menendez’s Successful Career
As Netflix’s series, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story creates ripples, the spotlight is once again on the infamous brothers who shot their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez, in 1989. Parallelly, interest has piqued about the wealthy lifestyle the Menendez family enjoyed, courtesy of José’s successful career. New revelations have shed light on José’s impressive career, which bred their affluence.
José’s Journey to Success
Born and raised in Cuba, José Menendez charted a definitive success story in the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. His journey started as an accountant after his graduation from Queens College, New York City. A significant career turn happened later when he joined Hertz, a renowned car rental company, managing their commercial leasing department.
José was also part of the game-changing move when RCA acquired Hertz, which further expanded his professional horizon. He was instrumental in brokering record deals with various music artists, establishing a firm foot in the vibrant Hollywood industry. However, it is his stint with Carolco Pictures, an independent film studio, that tells the tale of his business acumen.
Reviving Carolco Pictures
José left RCA on his accord and joined Carolco Pictures. The studio was in deep financial trouble, but José turned the tables with his strategic moves. He helped the company come out of significant debts and climb the ladder to impressive financial success. His wise decision-making paid off, and the film studio started to earn millions, contributing considerably to the family’s wealth.
During his tenure, José signed major stars, including Sylvester Stallone for the Rambo franchise. He also became notorious for cost-cutting, reportedly laying off hundreds of employees in order to revive the financially strapped studio.
Motives of the Brothers
Erik and Lyle Menendez stood trial for their brutal act of patricide. The brothers maintained that years of sexual, mental, and physical abuse drove them to kill their parents. Their defense was rooted in the argument of acting in self-defense. During the chaotic summer of 1989, Erik was 18 and Lyle was 21. As of 2024, Erik and Lyle are 53 and 56, respectively.
The Menendez brothers’ story, their lavish lifestyle, José’s successful career and their tragic murder continue to create a whirlwind of curiosity. The Netflix series brings forth a renewed perspective into one of the most infamous crimes by seemingly unlikely criminals.