Netflix hosted an intimate event on Friday afternoon, featuring a conversation led by SiriusXM’s Allison Dore and the co-stars of the new Netflix series, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. In the Netflix Canada HQ, we were all treated to an engaging discussion with Cooper Koch, who plays Erik Menendez, and Nicholas Alexander Chavez, who portrays Lyle Menendez. Their candid reflections on their roles added depth to what’s already one of Netflix’s most talked-about true crime series. Let’s get into it!
The actors shared stories that brought the audience behind the scenes of their transformation into the infamous Menendez brothers. The chemistry between Koch and Chavez was clear throughout the discussion, and at moments, it felt like they were still in character—especially Chavez, who embodied the more intense personality of Lyle, even in conversation.
The Netflix series: A deep dive into the Menendez Brothers’ dark past
Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story is part of Ryan Murphy’s Monsters anthology, following the success of Dahmer. This time, the series revisits the harrowing case of the Menendez brothers, who were convicted of killing their parents in 1989. The trial captivated the world, and the Netflix retelling explores the family’s dark secrets, abuse allegations, and the psychological weight carried by both brothers.
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Reflecting on the heavy material, Koch shared how they immersed themselves in courtroom footage to better understand their characters. “I watched the trial over and over again,” Koch said. “The more I watched, the more empathy I felt for Erik and Lyle. I really wanted to keep that point of view strong throughout filming.”
Chavez, who portrayed the more stoic and complicated Lyle, talked about his character’s emotional layers. “Lyle is written to be the less sympathetic of the two, but I wanted to discover the wounded inner child beneath his perfectionist exterior. He’s not just the cold figure from the trial; there’s pain there too.”
Behind the scenes: A bond on and off Camera
The actors’ camaraderie was evident both on and off the screen, and they spoke openly about how their relationship mirrored that of their characters. “Cooper and I are the only two people in the world who know what the other is going through with these roles,” Chavez reflected. “In a way, that’s similar to how Erik and Lyle were the only two who truly understood each other.”
Koch and Chavez recalled the challenges of portraying such notorious figures, including the physical transformations they had to endure for their roles. “We had throbbing headaches from the tape they used to pull back our faces,” Koch joked, referencing their extensive makeup sessions to create the brothers’ infamous look.
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But beyond the technicalities of acting, the connection they developed on set made the experience even more meaningful. “Our relationship grew organically,” Koch said. “It wasn’t just about becoming our characters; it was about becoming brothers, in a way.”
Hosted by SiriusXM’s Allison Dore
SiriusXM’s Allison Dore was the perfect host for the evening, leading the conversation with grace and humour. Known for her insightful interviews, Dore kept the audience engaged as she asked thought-provoking questions about the actors’ experiences and the impact of the series. Her banter with Koch and Chavez lightened the mood, creating a relaxed atmosphere amidst the serious subject matter.
In discussing the impact of the show’s success, Koch shared the overwhelming joy he felt when Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story hit number one on Netflix. “I had the best time watching it with my family and friends when it came out,” he said. “It’s been a rollercoaster, but the response has been incredible.”
Chavez added that while the material is heavy, the various perspectives presented in the show allow viewers to form their own opinions. “It takes a Rashomon approach,” he explained, “showing the story from so many different angles. It gives people the chance to think differently about what really happened.”
Here’s the who’s who that was in attendance:
From local media to creators, fashionistas and entertainment reporters alike, everyone was intently waiting for the gents to come out on stage, after grabbing a quick drink to get the afternoon started.
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We spotted Paris Hilton’s new bestie, Dustin Carrington, Ashkan and Roham Hobian, Didier and Andrew Cretaro, Brigette Truong, Chum FM’s Azalea Hart, Brittany Blair, Mike and Chris Rizzi, Kiss 92.5’s Maurie Sherman (a.k.a. Damnit Maurie) and more.
Looking ahead: What’s next for Koch and Chavez?
As the evening wrapped up, it was clear that this event gave fans a deeper appreciation for both the series and the actors behind it. Koch and Chavez left a lasting impression, not just through their portrayals of the Menendez brothers, but through their reflections on the real-life complexities of the story. With the show’s success and the buzz surrounding their performances, both actors are sure to have bright futures ahead, leaving fans eager to see what projects they take on next.
All photos courtesy of Arthur Mola / Netflix
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