Is Cooper Koch Married? 5 Shocking Facts About The 'Monsters' Star's Relationship Status And Career
The question of Cooper Koch’s marital status has been a major point of curiosity for fans, especially following his breakout, Emmy-nominated performance as Erik Menendez in the 2024 Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. The simple answer, as of late 2024 and early 2025, is no: Cooper Koch is not married, but he is in a serious, committed relationship that he recently made public.
This curiosity was fueled in part by the actor wearing a distinctive ring, which he clarified on a radio show was not a wedding band. The 28-year-old actor has successfully transitioned from indie horror films to a global sensation, and the latest updates confirm that his personal life is just as exciting as his professional trajectory, with a partner who is a filmmaker himself.
Cooper Koch: A Comprehensive Biography and Profile
Cooper Joseph Koch is an American actor who has rapidly risen to fame, celebrated for his compelling and nuanced performances across various genres, from horror to biographical crime drama.
- Full Name: Cooper Joseph Koch
- Date of Birth: July 16, 1996
- Age (as of 2025): 28
- Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
- Education: Graduate of Pace University's performing arts program.
- Occupation: Actor
- Known For: Portraying Erik Menendez in the Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story (2024).
- Early Career Highlights: Roles in the slasher film They/Them (2022) and the body horror film Swallowed (2022).
- Relationship Status: Dating Filmmaker Stuart McClave (Confirmed late 2024/early 2025).
- Upcoming Projects: The film Artificial by Luca Guadagnino.
The Definitive Answer: Is Cooper Koch Married?
The short, most current answer is no, Cooper Koch is not married. However, the speculation surrounding his marital status became a major talking point in late 2024, shortly after the premiere of Monsters on Netflix.
The confusion stemmed from the fact that Koch was frequently seen wearing a ring on his left hand. Addressing the rumors directly, he clarified the situation during an appearance on Sirius XM’s Andy Cohen Live.
He revealed that the ring was not a wedding ring, but rather a piece of jewelry with deep personal significance that he has worn for a long time. This candid explanation helped put an end to the widespread speculation, confirming that while he is not a husband, he is certainly off the market.
Meet Cooper Koch's Partner: Stuart McClave
While Cooper Koch is not married, he is in a serious relationship with filmmaker Stuart McClave. Koch made his relationship public in late 2024, confirming the news on Andy Cohen’s talk show.
The actor has since gushed about McClave, referring to him as his "partner" and his "personal winner" at the GQ Australia Man of the Year Awards in December 2024. The couple has since made several public appearances together, including attending the 2025 GLAAD Awards and the Golden Globes, marking a high-profile, public embrace of their relationship.
Stuart McClave, who is reportedly 38, is a filmmaker and a graduate of the University of Southern California. Koch has praised him for being incredibly supportive and "the best partner I could ask for," indicating a strong and committed bond.
From Indie Horror to Netflix Sensation: The Rise of Cooper Koch
Cooper Koch’s career trajectory is a fascinating study in taking on challenging, distinctive roles that showcase his versatility. Before his critically acclaimed role as Erik Menendez, Koch had already established himself in the independent horror scene.
His early breakout roles were in two 2022 horror films: the slasher movie They/Them, where he played a gay camper named Stu, and the body horror film Swallowed, where he starred as Benjamin. These roles were significant, not only for showcasing his acting range but also for establishing him as an openly gay actor taking on queer roles in the genre space.
The Menendez Effect: Playing Erik Menendez
The role that catapulted Cooper Koch to international stardom was his portrayal of Erik Menendez in Ryan Murphy’s anthology series, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. The series, which delves into the infamous case of the brothers who murdered their parents, was a massive success for Netflix.
Koch's performance, which required a deep dive into the complex psychological trauma and emotional turmoil of Erik Menendez, earned him significant critical praise and an Emmy nomination for Lead Actor in a Limited/Anthology Series. This role cemented his status as one of Hollywood's most promising young talents.
What’s Next? Cooper Koch’s Upcoming Projects and Topical Authority
Riding the wave of his Netflix success, Cooper Koch is not slowing down. He is strategically choosing projects that will further elevate his career and topical authority in the film industry.
His most anticipated upcoming project is the film Artificial, directed by the acclaimed queer filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, known for films like Call Me By Your Name. Koch is set to star in the film alongside a high-profile cast that includes Andrew Garfield, Billie Lourd, and Zosia Mamet.
This collaboration with a major auteur like Guadagnino signals Koch's transition into high-caliber, prestige cinema and demonstrates the industry's belief in his long-term potential.
Beyond feature films, Koch has also expanded his portfolio into the fashion world, starring in the cinematic campaign "As Time Goes By" for the luxury brand Saint Laurent, further solidifying his status as a major cultural figure. His continuous selection for diverse, high-profile projects—from a true-crime drama to a Luca Guadagnino film and a Saint Laurent campaign—ensures that Cooper Koch remains one of the most relevant and talked-about actors in Hollywood today.
In summary, while Cooper Koch is not married, he is deeply committed to his partner, Stuart McClave, and his professional life is currently thriving with major projects that will keep him in the spotlight for years to come.
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