Politically subversive appeal:
Having a strong sense of social justice often leads many of us to place Luigi Mangione on a pedestal, viewing him as a modern-day Robin Hood. His act of killing someone who profits from harm resonates as an act of resistance, not just violence, but moral retribution. Figures like Erin Brockovich or Edward Snowden, who risked everything to challenge systemic wrongs, come to mind. Mangione could be seen as embodying this spirit, taking extreme measures to pursue justice when conventional systems fail.
Many are deeply critical of late-stage capitalism, and if Mangione’s target represents an industry tycoon profiting from harm, such as those in Big Pharma, his actions symbolise a form of justice fantasy for those frustrated by systemic inaction. Films like Parasite and Joker tap into this sentiment, portraying characters who fight—sometimes violently—against economic and societal inequities. Similarly, Mangione can be seen as a hero for a disillusioned generation.
Societal and cultural norm:
Mangione is redeemed through sacrifice, which makes him appealing because it aligns with the generational ideal of selflessness for the greater good. This echoes a societal longing for leadership that prioritises people over profit. Characters like Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games) or V (V for Vendetta), who risk their lives for justice, inspire admiration. Mangione fits this mould, blending rebellion with a strong moral compass.
To provide cultural context for antiheroes, Millennials and Gen Z grew up consuming stories where the lines between good and evil often blur, such as Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, and The Dark Knight. Mangione’s act of killing someone harmful yet powerful places him within this lineage of morally complex antiheroes. Think about how people idolize Walter White or Daenerys Targaryen—not necessarily for their actions, but for what they symbolise in challenging oppressive systems. Mangione’s appeal thrives in this space of grey morality.
Romanticising the Underdog:
Mangione’s relatability as someone who isn’t conventionally heroic—his friend described him as a "super normal" person—makes his act of rebellion even more endearing (BBC). He’s not doing it for glory but because it’s the right thing to do. Characters like Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings or Neville Longbottom from Harry Potter—underdogs who rise to the occasion—are beloved for similar reasons. Luigi’s moral courage amplifies this trope, positioning him as a figure of quiet strength.
Many identify with the struggle against entrenched power structures, seeing themselves as underdogs in battles against wealth inequality, climate inaction, and political corruption. Mangione becomes a stand-in for their collective frustration and aspirations. Think of Greta Thunberg or Malala Yousafzai, who take on daunting, systemic challenges. While Mangione’s act of killing someone harmful may be more extreme, it channels the same energy of standing up for what’s right.
Mangione ABC NEWS
Hyper-awareness of media influence:
Mangione’s act of justice is likely magnified by fan interpretations, memes, and online storytelling that frame him as a cult hero. Platforms like TikTok or Reddit thrive on reinterpreting characters or public figures to align with generational ideals. The rise of figures like Pedro Pascal’s Joel (The Last of Us) or even unexpected internet “heartthrobs” like the Babadook shows how Gen Z and Millennials love creating narratives where unlikely figures become symbols of resistance and desire.#
If Mangione’s appeal also involves a rejection of toxic masculinity, his moral actions are seen as tied to emotional intelligence and empathy—traits often undervalued in traditional male heroes. Characters like Aziraphale from Good Omens or Loki from the MCU have inspired similar adoration, with fan communities amplifying their complexities to highlight their soft yet defiant natures.
Why he’s hot:
Mangione’s “Robin Hood” act is not just about the justice of his actions but what he represents:
Justice over power: He embodies a generational desire to dismantle corrupt systems.
Moral complexity: His willingness to take extreme measures is thrilling and reflective of modern antihero narratives.
Selflessness: Sacrificing personal comfort or safety for the greater good is an irresistible trait in an era longing for integrity.
Cultural remix: His appeal is amplified by meme culture, online storytelling, and generational reinterpretation of heroism.
Luigi Mangione’s attractiveness lies in the convergence of these traits with our cultural moment. He’s the scrappy, justice-driven, morally complex figure who represents a rebellion against everything Millennials and Gen Z are tired of tolerating.
Image - Sky news
Edited by Charlotte Lewis
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