The recent murder of UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson by Luigi Mangione has taken an unexpected turn, as the public’s fascination with the accused has overshadowed the gravity of the crime. Photos of Mangione have proliferated on social media, television, and newspapers, often featuring him in various settings, from his booking at a police station to his Tinder profile.
The “halo effect” is at play here, where the public equates innocence with attractiveness, and Mangione’s appearance has cemented his status as a folk hero. This phenomenon is not new, with historical figures like Robin Hood, Jesse James, and Che Guevara embodying the romanticized image of the charming and violent outlaw.
Social media platforms have further amplified this trend, allowing viewers to form opinions based on fleeting glimpses of the accused’s appearance rather than facts about their actions. Jeremy Meeks, known as “the hot felon,” is a notable example of how this phenomenon can trivialize serious crimes. His mug shot became a meme, and he has since become a model with over a million Instagram followers.
As the story surrounding Mangione unfolds, it’s essential to remember that behind the glamour and controversy lies a real tragedy – the murder of an innocent victim. The public’s fixation on Mangione’s appearance risks diminishing the significance of Thompson’s death and the gravity of Mangione’s actions.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/11/style/luigi-mangione-uhc-social.html