URGENT UPDATE: Fast-fashion giant Shein is facing backlash after a shocking advertisement featured a model resembling Luigi Mangione, who is currently incarcerated on a federal murder charge. The ad, promoting a men’s white floral button-up, has left shoppers perplexed and questioning the ethics of the company.
The advertisement sparked immediate outrage and confusion online as many noticed the striking resemblance between the model and Mangione, who is being held at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center for the alleged murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. This uncanny likeness has led to rampant speculation that Shein may have used an AI-generated image or a poorly executed photoshop of Mangione.
As of now, Shein has not provided any clarification regarding the controversial advertisement. The product listing, which was shared by the pop-culture account Pop Crave on X, has since been taken down, but not before it gained traction online. An archived version of the webpage shows the shirt was priced at USD $11.69 and received ten five-star reviews before its removal.
Mangione’s legal troubles are serious; he has pleaded not guilty to the murder and will remain in custody until his court appearance on December 5, 2023. This upcoming hearing will determine whether the death penalty will be on the table. His trial is anticipated to commence in 2026, marking a significant chapter in this high-profile case.
The question remains: Did Luigi Mangione really model for Shein? Given his current incarceration since December 2022, it is highly unlikely he posed for the fast-fashion brand. As shoppers and social media users continue to discuss the implications of this bizarre situation, the incident raises ethical questions about the use of imagery in advertising.
Stay tuned for more developments on this unfolding story, as authorities and legal teams continue to navigate the complexities of Mangione’s case and Shein’s questionable marketing tactics.
