New York Rangers star Vincent Trocheck receives backlash for controversial Halloween costume

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Daniel Lucente
October 31, 2024 (3:24 PM)

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Rangers Vincent Trocheck thought it would be a good idea to dress up for Halloween, but his choice of costume has caused quite a controversy online.

With Halloween landing on a Thursday, many NHL teams have joined in on the fun with costume parties and clever outfits, but as it is every year, there's just one that will inevitably upset some folks, and this year, it features Vincent Trocheck. His wife Hilary shared their Halloween costume on Instagram, which has since been taken down but not before social media erupted in outrage.

The costume in question? Trocheck and Hilary entered the building dressed as the notorious Menendez Brothers, Erik, and Lyle, who gained a wide reputation by actions that became the focus of the Netflix series 'Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story'. Considering the nature of the Menendez Brothers' story, that is where Trocheck's costume choice is getting some criticism. Reporters, including high-profile media personalities such as Andrew Berkshire, weighed in quickly with an opinion that had already been well-stated by fans across social media.

After backlash, it appears Trocheck's wife has taken the post down, which suggests they, too, likely realized the poor judgment involved in the costume and posting about it publicly. Even with that attempt at doing some damage control, the first post made an impression to inspire debates about appropriateness and accountability on social media.

Would this be such a big deal if it were some average Joe and his wife? Probably not. However, as an established NHL player, Trocheck has a platform with fans and followers that others do not. Selecting a costume linked to a case of such infamy was a big question mark. While the Menendez case has recently been in the public consciousness, it is quite a leap to suggest that it is an appropriate choice for light-hearted Halloween fun, considering its history. That incident brings into question whether Trocheck will face any disciplinary action either from the Rangers or the NHL, or whether there is a public apology in store.

Halloween costumes have often crossed the line, but this one was a little insensitive to many people. Being in the public eye, such an act by Vincent Trocheck points to how one should really consider their influence and possible impact whenever joining in on cultural activities. While this may or may not result in formal action against him, perhaps this is a lesson for Trocheck and a fair warning for others in the public eye to be more sensitive when it comes to activity selection.