Comedian Rosie O’Donnell has recently uncovered an unexpected tie to the Menendez brothers, with whom she has formed a close bond, describing herself as a “big sister” figure to them. The Menendez brothers, Lyle and Erik, are currently serving life sentences for the brutal 1989 murders of their parents, José and Kitty. The siblings’ story has resurfaced in the limelight following the release of Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.”
The brothers were apprehended in 1990 for first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, eventually receiving their sentences in 1996. Recent developments in their case have raised the possibility of new evidence that could potentially lead to their freedom, as the LA District Attorney reconsiders their situation in 2024.
O’Donnell disclosed to Variety that her connection with Lyle Menendez started when he reached out to her after watching her on Larry King Live three decades ago. Despite warnings from TV host Barbara Walters advising her against maintaining contact with the convicted murderers, O’Donnell found herself advocating for the brothers once again after a documentary shed new light on their case two years ago.
The comedian shared that she continues to communicate regularly with the Menendez brothers, emphasising her desire to use her platform to shed light on their story and advocate for those who have experienced abuse in silence. O’Donnell expressed a deep sense of responsibility to speak out for those who may not have a voice of their own, drawing from her own experiences.
Last year, O’Donnell visited the brothers in a San Diego prison, where she shared heartfelt moments with them, describing the encounter as a touching experience. Beyond a friendship, O’Donnell perceives the Menendez brothers as family, particularly viewing herself as a guiding presence in their lives, akin to a big sister. She noted Lyle’s remarkable standing within the California prison system and expressed optimism about the possibility of their release in the near future.
As O’Donnell continues to advocate for the Menendez brothers and raise awareness about their case, she underscores the importance of using her public platform for positive change and amplifying the voices of those who have been silenced.