Actress Rosie O’Donnell has sparked controversy with her support for the release of the Menendez brothers, who were denied parole this week. The 63-year-old took to Instagram to call for their freedom, writing “Free the Menendez brothers” in bold text.
O’Donnell’s stance on the case has divided her followers, with some expressing disagreement and others showing solidarity. The brothers, Erik and Lyle, were sentenced to life in prison in 1996 after confessing to murdering their parents in 1989. They claimed self-defense due to alleged abuse by their father, while prosecutors argued they killed their parents for inheritance.
Governor Gavin Newsom still holds the power to reverse parole decisions, leaving the Menendez brothers with a chance at freedom. They will face administrative review and potentially another parole hearing in three years. In 2025, their sentences were reduced from life without parole to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole.
Source: https://www.tvinsider.com/1210959/rosie-odonnell-response-menendez-brothers-lyle-erik-parole-decisions