Rosie O’Donnell Becomes a Supportive Ally to the Menendez Brothers: “Like a Big Sister”

The comedian opens up about her deep friendship with Lyle and Erik Menendez and her belief in their eventual release.

Rosie O’Donnell, the outspoken former co-host of The View, has forged a strong bond with the Menendez brothers, Lyle and Erik, who have been imprisoned for the 1989 killings of their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez. In a recent interview with Variety, O’Donnell revealed that she feels “like a big sister” to the brothers, with whom she communicates regularly, and expressed optimism about their potential release.

O’Donnell, 61, has become an unexpected advocate for the brothers, who have long maintained that they killed their parents in response to years of sexual abuse. She first connected with Lyle Menendez decades ago but admitted that she didn’t initially support him, influenced by broadcasting legend Barbara Walters, who labeled Lyle as “very cunning” and “a murderer” following her famous ABC interview with the brothers.

However, O’Donnell had a change of heart after watching a documentary that revisited the case and highlighted allegations of abuse. In 2022, she rekindled her connection with Lyle and has since taken on a vocal role in advocating for their release.

“We talk a lot,” O’Donnell told Variety. “I told them I would do what I could with whatever dwindling fame I have to bring light to their story.”

The case has garnered renewed attention, with Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón announcing a review of new evidence that the brothers’ attorneys have brought forth, suggesting that sexual abuse played a pivotal role in their actions. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian have also lent their support to the cause.

O’Donnell’s friendship with Lyle Menendez extends beyond phone calls. She shared details of her emotional visit to the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in California last year, where both brothers are incarcerated. During the visit, she described being deeply moved when Erik Menendez whispered to her, “Thank you for loving my brother.”

Reflecting on their bond, O’Donnell said the brothers are “excited” about their potential release, although they remain cautious about getting their hopes up. She emphasized the emotional toll of their long incarceration and acknowledged the psychological support they will need upon their release.

“I believe the wrong will be righted,” she told Variety. “They’re still reticent to believe it’s going to happen, but I’m confident it will.”

O’Donnell also humorously shared her plans for the brothers’ first meal outside of prison. Lyle has long expressed a desire to dine at Nobu, the celebrity-favorite restaurant, and O’Donnell has promised to take him there. “When I talked to him the other day, he said, ‘When are we going to Nobu?’ I said, ‘Sooner than you think.'”

While the future remains uncertain, O’Donnell’s unwavering support for the Menendez brothers has provided them with hope and a powerful public advocate. As their legal battles continue, the comedian has made it clear that she will be there for them every step of the way, cheering them on from the sidelines – and perhaps, one day, sitting with them at Nobu.