As Ryan Murphy continues to explore the twisted psyches of notorious killers in Netflix’s Monster anthology series, the upcoming season promises to shed light on a case that shocked the nation: the brutal murders of Jose and Kitty Menendez by their sons, Lyle and Erik. But there’s a lesser-known figure who played a crucial role in the Menendez brothers’ conviction: their therapist, Jerome Oziel. Here’s what you need to know about this enigmatic figure and his role in the infamous case.

Who is Jerome Oziel?

The name may not immediately ring a bell for those unfamiliar with the Menendez case, but he played a crucial role in the brothers’ trial. Oziel was the psychotherapist who treated Lyle Menendez and allegedly became embroiled in the brothers’ plot to murder their parents.

The inclusion of Oziel in the series has sparked intrigue among true-crime enthusiasts. While the Menendez brothers’ case has been covered extensively in the media, Oziel’s involvement has received less attention. Monsters creator Ryan Murphy has promised to delve deep into Oziel’s psyche, adding another layer of complexity to an already convoluted case.

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Oziel’s story is one of manipulation, betrayal, and a deep dive into the mind of a criminal. According to court documents, Oziel began treating Lyle Menendez for anxiety and depression in 1989. However, their therapy sessions took a dark turn when Lyle revealed that he and his brother had killed their parents. Oziel claimed that Lyle’s confession was made under duress, with the brothers threatening to harm him and his family if he didn’t keep their secret.

The defense argued that Oziel was lying and had encouraged the brothers to confess in order to protect his own reputation. The trial ultimately ended with the brothers’ conviction and Oziel’s testimony being called into question. He eventually lost his license to practice therapy.

With the new Monsters series, viewers will get a chance to see Oziel’s story from his perspective. Actor Leonard Roberts has been cast in the role, and early reports suggest that the character will be given a nuanced portrayal. It’s not clear how much screen time Oziel will get, but fans of true crime will no doubt be keeping a close eye on his storyline.

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The inclusion of Jerome Oziel in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story is just one of the reasons why fans are eagerly anticipating the show’s return. With a talented cast and crew, and a story that continues to captivate the public, the new season is sure to be a hit.