Music promoter Darrin McGillis has filed a $500 million civil lawsuit against NBC Universal in a South Florida federal court over the documentary: Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed.
The complaint alleges that the documentary produced by the network and available on the Peacock platform since 2023, contains false and defamatory statements that have severely damaged the reputation of the iconic youth group Menudo and McGillis as the rights holder of several of its hits.
Accusations of defamation and damage to Menudo’s trademark
In the lawsuit, McGillis claims that the documentary is based on “fabricated” statements by Roy Rosselló, a former member of Menudo, who alleges that he was sexually abused by José Menéndez, father of Lyle and Erik Menéndez, in the 1980s.
McGillis claims that NBC paid Rosselló a substantial sum to share his story on camera, without adequately verifying the veracity of his claims.
In addition, it argues that the documentary presents the Menudo group with “scandalous, false and defamatory” labels related to inappropriate sexual behavior, which has damaged the group’s brand and reputation.
Legal implications and connection with the Menéndez case
The documentary has rekindled interest in the case of the Menéndez brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1989.
Rosselló’s statements about José Menéndez appear to support the allegations of sexual abuse that Lyle and Erik have maintained for years, leading some to reconsider the circumstances surrounding the case.
Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón has announced his office’s willingness to evaluate new evidence in the case, including Rosselló’s testimony and a letter in which Lyle Menéndez discloses sexual abuse by his father.
A key hearing will be held on November 26, 2025, which could reopen the case and reconsider the severity of the penalties.
Menudo was the most famous Hispanic boy band but also the most controversial with allegations of alleged abuse against its members
Reactions and context for the U.S. Hispanic community.
For the Hispanic community in the United States, this case has a special significance, as Menudo was one of the most iconic and successful youth bands in Latin America, formed in Puerto Rico in 1977 by producer Edgardo Diaz.
The documentary and the lawsuit have generated debate about the veracity of the allegations and the impact on the reputation of iconic figures in Latin music.
In addition, it has brought sensitive issues such as sexual abuse in the entertainment industry and the responsibility of the media in addressing these stories to the center of the discussion.
New controversial episode in Menudo’s history
Darrin McGillis’ lawsuit against NBC Universal over the documentary Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed has opened a new chapter in the Menudo story and reignited the debate over the Menendez brothers’ case.
While awaiting legal resolution, this case highlights the importance of responsibly and sensitively addressing allegations of abuse and their impact on victims, institutions and public opinion.
Find out more at QueOnnda.com.
