Some wait for hours outside a courthouse to seek justice, while others, apparently, do so to catch a glimpse of the accused.
Luigi Mangione appeared in court again over the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, and outside the courthouse, a scene that has followed him since his name went around the world was repeated: dozens of admirers eagerly awaiting his arrival.
Some arrived early to secure a spot, others carried messages of support, and several openly admitted to feeling attracted to him. His appearance has become part of a phenomenon that even has a name on social media, where photos, videos, and posts abound treating him more like a celebrity than a man facing a serious criminal charge.
And the admiration has not remained outside the courthouses. Since he was arrested, Mangione has received letters, messages, and financial support from strangers. Campaigns have even been organized to help fund his defense, while some followers say they also identify with the criticism of the health insurance system that ended up surrounding his case.
That said, there is an important difference between the internet phenomenon and his legal situation. Luigi Mangione is accused of the murder of Brian Thompson, but he has not been found guilty, so calling him a “killer” reflects the comments and reactions circulating about his admirers, not a judicial conviction.
While the proceedings continue, a completely different spectacle takes place outside. There are women willing to wait for hours simply to see him pass by for a few seconds, showing that the fascination with Luigi Mangione now seems closer to a fan phenomenon than to following a court case.