Luigi Mangione has become an unlikely internet sensation for all the wrong reasons, gaining attention as the so-called “hot assassin” despite his serious criminal charges. Mangione, who is currently facing an 11-count indictment for the murder and terrorism charges related to the death of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has been the subject of fawning comments online, with people seemingly romanticizing his image despite his actions.
The obsession with Mangione reached a new level of absurdity when it spilled into the live audience at Saturday Night Live during the Weekend Update segment on December 21, 2024. Host Colin Jost was reporting on Mangione’s extradition when the audience erupted into loud cheers and “wooing” upon hearing his name. Jost, visibly baffled, tried to deflect the bizarre reaction by quipping, “You’re wooing for justice, right?” but the moment quickly went viral, drawing attention from both fans and critics alike.
Piers Morgan was among those who expressed outrage over the incident, taking to his X (formerly Twitter) to blast the audience and criticize Jost for seemingly brushing it off. He labeled the scene as “disgusting” and called out Jost for smirking through the awkward moment, branding it as a “shameful moment for SNL.” The online backlash was swift, with many agreeing that the crowd’s reaction was inappropriate, considering the severity of Mangione’s alleged crimes.
Jennifer Sey, an author and business executive, also weighed in on the controversy, accusing the SNL audience of being “pathetic woke conformists” and labeling them as “moronic” and “evil” for idolizing Mangione. Sey also criticized Mangione’s actions, calling him a “silver spoon/trust funder” with a twisted “Robin Hood” narrative, implying he was somehow justified in his crime.
Stephen Miller, former homeland security advisor to President-elect Donald Trump, echoed similar sentiments, calling the scene “revolting” and “sickening.” The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the glorification of criminals and the dangers of romanticizing individuals who commit heinous acts. Mangione’s case serves as a reminder of the ethical considerations surrounding public figures and the obsession with certain criminals, particularly when their actions are romanticized rather than condemned.
Mangione’s story has clearly struck a nerve, and the reactions from public figures suggest that the line between celebrity and criminality is becoming increasingly blurred in popular culture. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether society will continue to entertain such distorted views of justice and heroism.