Nearly three decades after their 1996 conviction for the parents’ murders, the Menendez brothers built momentum trying to carve a new path toward possible freedom – this time, with the help of Hollywood.

From Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” which received an eyebrow-raising 11 Emmy nominations, to viral podcasts, the media spotlights have reignited public debate over their case and set the stage for resentencing and parole bids.

Critics argue the newfound attention is less about justice and more about entertainment.

“The resentencing of the Menendez brothers speaks directly to the power and influence that social media and new media have on our society,” Adam Guillette, the president of Accuracy in Media, told Fox News Digital.

“Why did the elected Los Angeles district attorney revisit this case? Was it suddenly an urgent public safety issue for his constituents? No, but it received a ton of attention on podcasts and on Netflix.”

A sketch depicts (l-r) Erik and Lyle Menendez as they appear remotely at superior court in Van Nuys, California, Friday, April 11, 2025. (Bill Robles)

But in April 2025, a judge ruled that the process would move forward despite Hochman’s objections. On May 13, the Menendez brothers were formally resentenced to 50 years to life, opening the door to parole consideration. 

Throughout the process, the brothers’ extended family has been steadfast in backing their release. 

On Thursday, the parole board denied Erik Menendez’s bid for release in San Diego. On Friday, the parole board also denied Lyle Menendez’s bid for release.