UPDATE: Fast-fashion giant Shein has found itself at the center of controversy after being accused of featuring Luigi Mangione, a man currently incarcerated for allegedly murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, in a recent advertisement for its men’s spring collection.
Shoppers were left bewildered as an advertisement for a white floral button-up shirt displayed a model strikingly similar to Mangione, who has been held in Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Centre since December 2022. The resemblance has ignited a flurry of speculation online—was it a case of AI imagery, or possibly a poorly executed Photoshop job?
The ad, which has since been removed, originally listed the shirt at USD$11.69. Fans of pop culture quickly shared the listing on social media, prompting widespread confusion and concern. The page now leads to a broken link, but an archived version from September 3 shows the shirt had garnered ten five-star reviews before its disappearance.
As of now, Shein has not issued an official statement regarding the viral advertisement, leaving many to wonder how a man facing serious criminal charges could be associated with a fashion campaign. Mangione, aged 27, has pleaded not guilty to the murder charges and will remain in custody until his next court appearance set for December 5, 2023. This hearing will determine if the death penalty will be pursued in his case, with a trial expected to commence in 2026.
The shocking nature of this incident raises questions about the ethical practices within the fast-fashion industry, as well as the potential consequences of using controversial figures—even inadvertently—in marketing efforts. As the situation unfolds, consumers are keenly watching for Shein’s response and the implications for their brand image.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story continues.
