Koch was recognized for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie at the 2025 Emmy Awards, marking a major breakthrough in a rising career already marked by buzzworthy performances, and a certain shirtless viral moment that fans won’t soon forget.
Photo: Netflix
A Standout Performance in a Haunting Story
The nine-episode Netflix limited series, part of Ryan Murphy’s Monsters anthology, revisits the infamous 1989 Beverly Hills murders committed by the Menendez brothers, who claimed years of parental abuse in their defense. Koch played Lyle, the elder brother, with unnerving precision and unexpected emotional depth, earning him earlier accolades, including a Golden Globe nomination.
His co-stars Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny also received Emmy nods for their supporting roles, while the series itself landed a nomination for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series.
From Screen to Courtroom: A Real-Life Impact
The Emmy buzz arrives on the heels of renewed legal developments in the Menendez case. Just nine months after Monsters debuted, a California judge responded to a resentencing petition by reducing the brothers’ sentences to 50 years to life, making them eligible for parole. The decision followed mounting public interest sparked by the show and a subsequent Netflix documentary.
Lyle and Erik Menendez are expected to appear before the California Parole Board this August. The show’s resonance with viewers and lawmakers alike is a reminder of the power scripted drama can wield beyond entertainment, particularly in revisiting stories of justice and trauma through a modern lens.
Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story. (L to R) Nicholas Chavez as Lyle Menendez, Cooper Koch as Erik Menendez in episode 202 of Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story. Photo: Netflix Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story. (L to R) Cooper Koch as Erik Menendez, Nicholas Chavez as Lyle Menendez in episode 202 of Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story. Photo: Netflix
What’s Next for Koch?
While Emmy voters are finally paying attention to Koch’s work, so is the film world. The actor has reportedly joined the cast of Artificial, the next project from celebrated queer director Luca Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Name, Challengers). Deadline reports Koch will appear alongside Andrew Garfield and Yura Borisov in the upcoming film, though plot details remain tightly under wraps.
If Koch continues his current trajectory, balancing prestige TV, festival-circuit cinema, and the occasional cheeky viral moment, he’s set to become a fixture in Hollywood’s next generation of leading men. And now, with an Emmy nomination under his belt, that ascent is officially in motion.
Golden Globe-nominated actor Cooper Koch is turning up the heat in Calvin Klein’s newest campaign, delivering sharp style and undeniable charisma in a series of striking images by renowned photographer and director Mert Alas.
Known for his performances in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, They/Them, and Swallowed, the openly gay actor brings serious star power—and plenty of smolder—to his Calvin Klein debut. The campaign celebrates both the legacy and the future of the iconic brand, spotlighting signature staples and modern fits that reflect a fresh generation of cool.
A Stylish Debut
Cooper Koch’s first Calvin Klein campaign isn’t just a fashion moment—it’s a statement. Clad in the brand’s newest Icon Cotton Stretch underwear line and paired with timeless denim pieces like the Baggy Jeans and Classic Denim Shirt, Koch effortlessly embodies the essence of Calvin Klein: confident, clean, and unapologetically bold.
The campaign also features CK’s Cotton Classic Tank, offering a nod to the brand’s heritage while staying firmly rooted in today’s minimalist, body-conscious aesthetic. Koch’s lean, athletic frame and confident gaze add an extra punch to the visuals, making it clear that he didn’t just show up—he understood the assignment.
Directed by a Fashion Powerhouse
Of course, a campaign this fierce needs a visionary behind the lens. Enter Mert Alas, the celebrated photographer and director best known for his provocative, high-fashion imagery. With his sharp eye for mood and movement, Alas captures Koch in a series of sleek, moody frames that balance sex appeal with modern masculinity.
Cooper Koch for Calvin Klein. Photo: Calvin KleinCooper Koch for Calvin Klein. Photo: Calvin Klein
Under Alas’ creative direction, each image is a masterclass in confidence—whether Koch is lounging in a denim-on-denim look or stretching out in Calvin’s signature briefs, the energy is both intimate and aspirational.
Queer Representation in Fashion
Koch’s inclusion in this campaign is also a meaningful moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in fashion. As an out gay actor, his presence in such a globally recognized brand spotlights a shift toward more inclusive, authentic representation—one where queer talent is not just welcomed but celebrated.
Cooper Koch for Calvin Klein. Photo: Calvin Klein
Whether fans are here for the fashion, the thirst trap-worthy photos, or both, one thing’s clear: Cooper Koch is having a moment. And in Calvin Klein, he wears it well.
The full Calvin Klein campaign starring Cooper Koch is now live. Explore the latest collection atCalvinKlein.com.
As The White Lotus wraps up its much-discussed brother-on-brother storyline, Cooper Koch is keeping the flames of sibling drama alive — and this time, he’s bringing his real-life brothers into the fold.
The HBO series season finale may have provided some closure to the intense, homoerotic tension between the Ratliff brothers, Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and Lochlan (Sam Nivola). A pivotal moment between the two — where Lochlan lends a hand to Saxon while he’s with Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon) — sparked waves of conversation about the portrayal of intimacy between siblings on television. Fans were left both shocked and intrigued, asking the question: Why is there so much emphasis on this theme?
But if you thought the scandalous moment was behind us, think again. Cooper Koch, who starred as one of the Menendez brothers in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story on Netflix, decided to have a little fun with the controversial moment.
Though Cooper is not active on social media, his younger brother Walker Koch took to Instagram ahead of The White Lotus finale airing on Sunday, posting a playful photo of Cooper and his twin brother Payton. The image shows Payton leaning in for a kiss with Cooper, standing underneath art shaped like Thailand. Walker even tagged The White Lotus in the post, making it clear that this was a cheeky nod to the show’s controversial plot.
Photo: Instagram (@walkerkoch)
The Instagram Story, which has since disappeared, was clearly a lighthearted joke. The brothers, who share a close bond, were giving the show a playful “kiss off” in their own way.
The Koch twins’ bond isn’t just a casual one; they share a deep connection, both personally and professionally. While Cooper has risen to fame with his acting career — particularly after his breakthrough role in Monsters — Payton has been making a name for himself in the world of film production. Payton’s work includes editing on acclaimed projects like Only Murders in the Building, which earned him an Emmy nomination, and working with Ryan Murphy on shows like American Horror Story and The Politician. Cooper was even his guest at the Emmys, and with both brothers now in the spotlight, it’s only a matter of time before they return the favor.
While Cooper’s career has earned him recognition, his twin’s path is just as impressive, and their strong family ties are evident. They both grew up in Los Angeles, a stone’s throw from Hollywood, and their shared history is part of their undeniable connection. They’ve even posed together in steamy photo shoots, most recently for Behind The Blinds, a glossy editorial magazine that highlighted the pair’s captivating dynamic.
In their latest playful moment, it’s clear that the Koch family isn’t afraid to have a little fun with the media’s fascination with sibling dynamics. While the Ratliff brothers may have stirred up heated debates, the Koch twins are just enjoying life, their careers, and, of course, making headlines with their playful sense of humor.
The 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards celebrated LGBTQ+ representation and achievement across media, with winners announced in 33 categories. Hosted by Michael Urie, the ceremony featured live performances by country artist Tanner Adell and pop visionary Jake Wesley Rogers. Special remarks were made by prominent figures such as Jonathan Bennett, Raquel Chevremont, and Hannah Einbinder, while the evening also honored Cynthia Erivo with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for her advocacy work in the LGBTQ+ community.
‘Hacks’ winning Outstanding Comedy Series at the 36th GLAAD Media Awards. Photo: Getty Images
Outstanding Music Artist Doechii, for Alligator Bites Never Heal (Top Dawg Entertainment/Capitol Records), won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Music Artist. The award was presented by Lil Nas X and Maren Morris.
Outstanding Film – Streaming or TV The Groomsmen: Second Chances (Hallmark) took home the award for Outstanding Film – Streaming or TV, presented by Brandon Scott Jones and Nico Santos.
Outstanding Documentary
The GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Documentary was presented to Will & Harper (Netflix), with Jay Shetty and Marissa Bode giving the honor.
Outstanding Reality Program – Competition RuPaul’s Drag Race (MTV) won for Outstanding Reality Program – Competition. The award was presented by Dylan Efron.
Outstanding Reality Program The Real Housewives of New York City (Bravo) was recognized with the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Reality Program. The award was also presented by Dylan Efron.
Outstanding New Series Agatha All Along (Disney+) earned the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding New Series. Cooper Koch presented the award.
Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series Baby Reindeer (Netflix) won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. Cooper Koch presented the award to the cast.
Outstanding Podcast Baby, This Is Keke Palmer (Wondery) received the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Podcast. The award was presented by Ana Ortiz, Becki Newton, Michael Urie, and Mark Indelicato.
Outstanding Drama Series 9-1-1: Lone Star (Fox) was awarded Outstanding Drama Series. Lisa Ann Walter and William Stanford Davis presented the honor.
Outstanding Comedy Series Hacks (Max) earned the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. Joshua Jackson presented the award.
Offstage Video Reel Winners
In addition to the onstage awards, the following winners were announced in an offstage video reel:
Outstanding Film – Wide Theatrical Release My Old Ass (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding Film – Limited Theatrical Release Crossing (MUBI)
Outstanding Children’s Programming The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish (Nickelodeon)
Outstanding Kids & Family Programming or Film – Live Action Heartstopper (Netflix)
Outstanding Kids & Family Programming or Film – Animated Jurassic World: Chaos Theory (Netflix)
Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist
Durand Bernarr (DSing Records)
Outstanding Broadway Production (TIE) Lempicka (book by Carson Kreitzer, music by Matt Gould, lyrics by Carson Kreitzer) Oh, Mary! (by Cole Escola)
Outstanding Video Game Dragon Age: The Veilguard (BioWare / Electronic Arts)
Outstanding Comic Book Suicide Squad: Dream Team by Nicole Maines (DC Comics)
Outstanding Original Graphic Novel/Anthology Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans [anthology] (A Wave Blue World)
Outstanding Variety or Talk Show Episode “Elliot Page Talks Season 4 of ‘The Umbrella Academy,’ Fighting Anti-LGBTQ Legislation” (The View, ABC)
Outstanding TV Journalism Segment “Big Gay Football” (CBS Sports, CBS)
Outstanding TV Journalism – Long-Form “The Life and Death of Blaze Bernstein” (48 Hours, CBS)
Outstanding Live TV Journalism – Segment or Special “Sarah McBride reflects on Becoming First Openly Transgender Person Elected To Congress” (PBS NewsHour, PBS)
Outstanding Print Article
“‘Changing The Narrative’: Advocates Fight HIV Stigma in Dallas’ Latino Community” by Abraham Nudelstejer (The Dallas Morning News)
Outstanding Magazine Overall Coverage The Advocate
Outstanding Online Journalism Article
“Friends Remember Nex Benedict, Oklahoma Student Who Died After School Fight, as ‘Fiery Kid’” by Jo Yurcaba (NBCNews.com)
Outstanding Online Journalism – Video or Multimedia
“Rainbow Girls: 10 Years of Protection and Prejudice” (The Picture Show, NPR.org)
Outstanding Independent Journalism The 19th
Spanish-Language Categories
The following awards were presented in the Spanish-language categories:
Outstanding Scripted Television Series El Secreto del Río (Netflix)
Outstanding TV Journalism “Más Allá de los Pronombres” (Noticias Telemundo Colorado, Telemundo Colorado)
Outstanding Online Journalism Article “Jóvenes latinos gay ven un porcentaje creciente de nuevos casos de VIH en EEUU” by Devna Bose, Laura Bargfeld, Phillip Reese, and Vanessa G. Sánchez (APNews.com, KFFHealthNews.org & Univision.com)
Outstanding Online Journalism – Video or Multimedia “La Investigadora que Buscaba su Identidad” by Natalia Orozco, Cristina Gleinig, and Carlos Delgado (Fuerza Latina – DW Español)
Special Recognition Awards
GLAAD presented Special Recognition awards to the following projects and organizations:
DRAG: The Musical
La Verdrag (Canal Once)
OUTLOUD
Red Ink: A Tribute to Cecilia Gentili
The Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center
The Q Agenda (LatiNation)
WNBA 2024 Champions: The New York Liberty
Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ Media Q.Digital received the Barbara Gittings Award for its ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ media excellence.
Streaming Details
The 36th GLAAD Media Awards will stream exclusively on Hulu starting April 12, giving fans the chance to relive the celebration of LGBTQ+ achievement and excellence in media.
For a complete list of winners and nominees, visit the official GLAAD website.
Cooper Koch, who gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Erik Menendez in Ryan Murphy’sMonsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, is setting his sights on his next big project. Following his Golden Globe nomination for the role, Koch revealed that he’s eager to star in adaptations of several notable queer novels.
In a recent cover story for VMan magazine, Koch shared his “fantasy list” of literary works he would love to bring to the big screen. “Yes: Giovanni’s Room, All Fours, and A Little Life,” Koch said, emphasizing that his interest is driven by a desire to engage with projects that hold personal meaning. “I just want to do things that I feel have meaning and purpose that I’m passionate about,” he added.
All three novels Koch named are centered around queer themes, reflecting his commitment to meaningful roles that resonate with him personally.
Giovanni’s Room, written by the iconic James Baldwin in 1956, explores the story of an American man living in Paris who embarks on a passionate love affair with Giovanni, an Italian bartender. The novel is widely regarded as a classic in LGBTQ+ literature and continues to influence readers and artists alike.
All Fours, the 2024 novel by writer and filmmaker Miranda July, centers on a middle-aged woman who embarks on a sexual awakening, navigating complex emotions and desires. The novel is expected to draw significant attention for its exploration of identity and self-discovery in a queer context.
Another major work on Koch’s list is A Little Life, Hanya Yanagihara’s modern queer masterpiece, first published in 2015. The novel follows the lives of four college friends as they navigate love, trauma, and their personal struggles in New York City. A 2025 audiobook version, narrated by actor Matt Bomer, will further extend the novel’s reach to audiences.
While Koch is passionate about these literary works, his commitment to telling meaningful stories extends beyond the world of fiction. He also continues to advocate for the Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, whom he portrayed in Monsters. In the interview, Koch expressed his support for their ongoing efforts to be released from prison, highlighting the personal growth the brothers have experienced while incarcerated.
“Erik teaches speech classes, yoga, and meditation, and they help people who have been through sexual abuse,” Koch explained. “They’ve gotten college degrees. They’ve found a life in prison because they’ve accepted what happened to them, and they accepted what they did. That takes such courage and bravery and strength and time. I think for that reason they deserve to come home.”
As Koch looks to the future, it’s clear that he is committed to projects that challenge societal norms and tackle important LGBTQ+ issues, both on and off the screen. Whether it’s bringing iconic queer literature to life or supporting the fight for justice, the actor is focused on using his platform to advocate for meaningful change.
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman has publicly opposed granting the Menendez Brothers a new trial, a position that has drawn criticism from actor Cooper Koch, who portrayed Erik Menendez in the Netflix series Monsters.
The case revolves around Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted in 1996 of murdering their parents, José and Mary Menendez. The brothers have long maintained that they killed their parents in self-defense after enduring years of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In 2022, former District Attorney George Gascon recommended that the brothers be re-sentenced, which could have resulted in their release on parole. This recommendation came after new evidence surfaced, including letters that allegedly supported the brothers’ claims of abuse.
However, Hochman, who was elected as District Attorney in 2024, dismissed the notion of a new trial for the Menendez brothers. In a press conference held Friday, Hochman questioned the credibility of new evidence presented in their case, specifically a letter from Erik Menendez to a man named Andy Cano, dated 1988. Hochman cast doubt on the authenticity of the letter and its relevance to the case.
“We looked again at the credibility of the letters, particularly this Andy Cano 1988 supposed letter,” Hochman said. “It calls into drastic question whether this is in fact a 1988 letter written by Erik Menendez to Andy Cano about this sexual abuse.” Hochman also stated that even if the letter were valid, it was not presented during the original trial and came too late to be considered in the current proceedings. “The delay in bringing this motion from at least 2015 to 2023 is substantial,” he added, referring to the brothers’ request for a re-sentencing.
Hochman emphasized that, based on the legal grounds, the court should deny the Menendez brothers’ current habeas petition. He also noted that if the court disagreed, it could issue an “order to show cause,” which would involve further legal proceedings.
Cooper Koch, who played Erik Menendez in Monsters, a role that dramatized the brothers’ lives and the complex circumstances surrounding the murders, responded to Hochman’s stance in a statement. In a message shared via his brother Payton Koch’s Instagram Story, Cooper expressed his disapproval of Hochman’s position.
“I am deeply troubled by the statement made today by District Attorney Nathan Hochman,” Cooper Koch said in a statement released on his brother, Payton Koch’s Instagram story. “It is still my firm belief that the Menendez brothers did not receive a fair second trial and all of the evidence that supported their claims of sexual, psychological, physical, and emotional abuse at the hands of their mother and father were not considered.”
Koch, who has become a vocal advocate for the Menendez brothers’ case, further expressed his belief in the brothers’ innocence and the need for justice. “I remain hopeful that there is still a path forward that will lead to their freedom, so I encourage all of their supporters to keep their voices strong,” he added.
The Menendez brothers were convicted of first-degree murder for killing their parents in Beverly Hills in 1989. Their case garnered widespread media attention, with many questioning whether their actions were the result of a lifetime of abuse. After serving over 30 years in prison, the brothers have continued to fight for their freedom, with renewed support from activists, legal experts, and the entertainment industry.
As the debate over their case continues, the Menendez brothers’ future remains uncertain. Hochman’s decision to reject their request for a new trial adds another chapter to one of California’s most infamous criminal cases. Fans and advocates like Koch continue to rally behind the brothers, hoping for a chance at justice and potential release.
Did you know Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story star Cooper Koch has a twin—and he’s gay too? That’s right! Cooper, who plays Erik Menendez in Ryan Murphy’s latest crime drama, has a fraternal twin brother, Payton, who’s also making waves behind the scenes in Hollywood.
Born to horse-racing magnate Billy Koch and author Kathy Kaehler, Cooper and Payton, now 28, grew up in a world where the spotlight was never far away. And while Cooper is grabbing attention on screen, Payton works his magic off-screen as a picture editor.
Payton’s resume is no less impressive than his brother’s. He’s worked on major projects like American Horror Story, Ratched, and Only Murders in the Building, which even earned him an Emmy nomination. Talent definitely runs deep in the Koch family!
How Close Are the Twins?
If you check out their Instagram pages, you’ll see these twins are thick as thieves. For Pride Month, Payton shared a sweet post of the two with the caption, “Happy Pride from your favorite gay twins.” The Koch twins aren’t just family—they’re best friends.
When Monsters sparked controversy over its portrayal of Erik Menendez, Payton was quick to support Cooper. “I won’t speak for Cooper,” Payton said, “but I will say that he cares immensely for the [Menendez] boys and stands with them and all victims of abuse.” He added that Cooper “did everything he could to ensure their stories of abuse were seen on screen.”
What’s Next for the Menendez Brothers?
In real life, the Menendez brothers, who are serving life sentences, may see a change in their fate. The Los Angeles County District Attorney recently recommended their re-sentencing, citing new evidence of their father’s alleged abuse.
