Cooper Koch has been making a name for himself with his compelling performance in Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. The actor, who hails from Los Angeles, takes on the role of Erik Menéndez, one of the infamous Menéndez brothers convicted of murdering their parents in 1989. In a recent interview, Cooper shared how he immersed himself in the character of Erik by transforming his trailer into Erik’s room, surrounding himself with clothes, pictures, and journals to truly embody the role.
The show has sparked renewed interest in the Menendez brothers’ case, leading to new evidence being discovered. Recently, Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón recommended resentencing for Lyle and Erik, potentially granting them immediate parole. Cooper expressed his gratitude and optimism for this development through a statement shared by his brother Payton Koch on Instagram Stories.
In addition to his acting career, Cooper has a twin brother named Payton Koch, who works as a film editor in the entertainment industry. Their family boasts a strong legacy in entertainment, with their father, Billy Koch, working as a visual effects editor, and their grandfather, Hawk Koch, serving as a movie producer and former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Cooper’s great-grandfather, Howard W. Koch, was also a prominent figure in the industry as a producer and director, known for his work on films like The Manchurian Candidate and Airplane II: The Sequel. Cooper himself began his acting journey in 2018 with his role in the film West 40s, which paved the way for more opportunities in projects like They/Them and Power Book II: Ghost.
Despite growing up in Los Angeles, Cooper made the move to New York City to pursue his passion for acting, eventually earning his BFA in Acting from the Pace School of Performing Arts. This educational background, coupled with his family’s rich history in entertainment, has undoubtedly contributed to Cooper’s success in the industry.
As Cooper continues to captivate audiences with his performances, his dedication to his craft and his portrayal of complex characters like Erik Menéndez solidify his status as a rising star to watch in Hollywood. With a supportive family by his side and a promising career ahead of him, Cooper Koch is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of entertainment.