Since the premiere of Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, the impact has been tremendous. The show continues to be a popular choice on Netflix and has sparked various discussions online. Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez, who play Erik and Lyle Menendez, have been at the center of attention with their outstanding performances. Koch particularly shines in episode five, “The Hurt Man,” where he delivers a powerful and emotional performance depicting Erik’s history of abuse.
In a recent interview, Koch shares his thoughts on the show’s success and how it has changed his life. Despite the newfound recognition and fan attention, Koch remains grounded and appreciative of the experience. He acknowledges the sex symbol status he and Chavez have gained but admits to staying away from social media and the online buzz surrounding their performances.
When asked about his approach to portraying such emotional material in “The Hurt Man,” Koch emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotional connection to the character. He reveals that the episode was shot in one continuous take, requiring multiple full takes before the final version was chosen. Koch describes the experience as one of the most incredible acting experiences of his career.
Reflecting on the lessons learned from the project, Koch highlights the importance of trust in oneself and openness to the moment. Despite his involvement in horror and suspense projects like Monsters, Koch admits that he is not a big fan of the horror genre and looks forward to exploring different genres in future roles.
Koch also shares his aspirations to work with acclaimed filmmakers like Sean Baker and Pedro Almodóvar. He expresses his interest in adapting four queer-centric books for television or film, emphasizing the importance of telling authentic queer stories in entertainment.
Growing up in a family with a background in film production, Koch credits his mother for introducing him to theater and acting at a young age. While he has found success in film and television, Koch expresses his desire to return to live performance, including a dream of performing in a play on Broadway.
Despite his admiration for Ryan Murphy’s work and previous projects, Koch reveals that he was not a horror fan before working on Monsters. He shares his recent obsessions with shows like The White Lotus and Severance, showcasing his diverse taste in entertainment.
In a poignant moment, Koch reflects on meeting the real Erik and Lyle Menendez and the emotional connection he felt during their conversations. He describes the experience as rewarding and moving, emphasizing his support for the siblings and their rehabilitation efforts in prison.
Overall, Koch’s journey in queer art and self-trust shines through his thoughtful reflections and aspirations for the future. As he continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry, Koch remains committed to telling authentic queer stories and exploring diverse roles across different genres.
