Manhattan: In a bizarre turn of events, Luigi Mangione, the man accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is now at the heart of a viral social media storm. Allegations that he recorded at least 20 sex tapes have ignited heated discussions online, with speculation about their existence overshadowing the murder charges he faces.
The rumors, originally reported by RadarOnline and picked up by the Daily Mail, suggest that Mangione filmed highly produced videos featuring himself engaged in sexual activity.
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According to an anonymous source cited by RadarOnline, “He wanted to be watched. He got off on it.” The claim further alleges that the videos were shot with professional lighting and camera work, making them of “high production quality.” However, no verified evidence has emerged to confirm the tapes’ existence, and authorities have not acknowledged their relevance to Mangione’s murder case.
Despite the lack of proof, the internet has latched onto the rumors, with many users mocking the attempt to ‘sex shame’ Mangione. Some social media reactions even compared him to fictional antiheroes, including Patrick Bateman from American Psycho. Others have taken a more serious stance, criticizing media outlets for sensationalizing unverified claims while ignoring broader concerns about the US healthcare system, which some say fueled Mangione’s alleged crime.
The frenzy has also had an unexpected financial impact. Mangione’s online legal defense fund has seen a surge in donations, reportedly exceeding $600,000. Some donors have expressed their support in defiant messages, with one contributor stating, “Every time those monsters try to smear his name, I’m only more motivated to help him! Stay strong!” Another joked, “WARNING: Do NOT watch the nonexistent tapes. If you do, Mayor Eric Adams will crawl out of your TV and kill you.”
Mangione, a University of Pennsylvania graduate with degrees in computer engineering and information science, was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania, five days after the December 4 shooting in Manhattan. He now faces both federal and state charges, with the terrorism count making him eligible for the death penalty. His next court hearing is scheduled for March 19.
While speculation over his alleged sex tapes continues to dominate online discourse, law enforcement remains focused on the murder case itself. Whether the rumors will have any lasting impact on Mangione’s trial or public perception remains to be seen.
