Cooper Koch is experiencing a career breakthrough thanks to his portrayal of Erik Menéndez in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story, a hit Netflix series that has earned him his first Golden Globe nomination. The actor, 28, received the nod for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television, recognizing his standout role in the gripping drama about the infamous Menéndez brothers.
Ahead of the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, which take place on January 5, Koch shared his excitement and gratitude in an interview with Heather McMahan during E! Live From the Red Carpet. “This is amazing,” Koch said. “I’m so grateful and honored to be here. And everyone in my category is like, insane. What a talented group of people. I’m just honored to be next to them.”
Koch is nominated alongside a formidable group of actors, including Colin Farrell, Richard Gadd, Kevin Kline, Ewan McGregor, and Andrew Scott, all of whom are recognized for their performances in television or film.
A New Chapter for Koch
Since the release of Monsters in September 2024, Koch’s life has undergone a dramatic transformation. He has quickly become one of the breakout stars of the year, earning praise for his deeply emotional and nuanced portrayal of Erik Menéndez. But the newfound recognition has also brought about unique opportunities. Koch revealed that even celebrity fans of the series have reached out to him, including Kim Kardashian, who personally messaged him after watching the show.
“It was fun,” Koch said of Kardashian’s message. “She’s great. I love her.” Kardashian, 44, has been vocal about her support for the Menéndez brothers, even visiting them in prison after watching the series.
Kim Kardashian’s Support and Prison Visit
In an unexpected twist, Koch joined Kim Kardashian, her sister Khloé, and their mother Kris Jenner for a visit to the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego, where Erik and his brother Lyle have been incarcerated since 1996 for the murder of their parents. During the visit, Kardashian and Koch spoke with the Menéndez brothers about the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation’s Green Space project, an initiative designed to reduce recidivism by making life in prison more akin to the outside world.
“I was so nervous before I got there,” Koch admitted in an interview with People last year. “I had spoken to both of them, so I knew we already kind of had a camaraderie, and they knew where I stood. I told them I supported them and I believed them. I had a feeling they were going to welcome me with open arms, but still, it’s so nerve-racking to meet someone who you’ve been listening to and are inspired by.”
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When Koch finally met Erik Menéndez in person, he described an instant connection. “I got to hug both of them,” he recalled. “I sat next to Erik in this circle with all the other incarcerated individuals who were telling their stories, and they were both so kind. They’re amazing people.”
A New Chapter: Being Selective with Roles
With Monsters‘ success, Koch is entering a new phase of his career where he can be more selective about the roles he takes on. The actor told McMahan on the Golden Globes red carpet that he now feels empowered to choose projects that resonate with him personally and creatively. “It’s amazing to be in a different position now,” Koch explained. “I can sort of pick and choose, and I want to do something that means something to me, that I feel passionate about. I feel like my work is just better when I feel deeply connected to a story, to a person, or to a specific meaning or purpose. And so I want to find something that is really special and I feel really passionate about.”
Koch’s ability to carefully choose roles that align with his values and artistic goals signals a bright future for the actor. He has earned recognition not only for his performance in Monsters but also for his thoughtful approach to his career and the roles he takes on.
As the Golden Globe Awards unfold on January 5, Koch’s nomination marks a significant milestone in his career. Though he is not the only nominee in his category, his rise to prominence has been a testament to his talent, dedication, and the powerful story of the Menéndez brothers.
For the latest updates and full coverage of the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards, be sure to follow People, where you can stay up-to-date on all the action from the red carpet and beyond.
