Shein launches investigation after vendor used Luigi Mangione’s likeness on listing

Shein has pulled a men’s shirt listing after an AI-generated image resembling accused killer Luigi Mangione appeared on its site. The company blamed a third-party vendor and said the content was removed immediately.

Screenshots of the floral button-down shirt listing circulated widely on social media, showing the $10 item nearly sold out before it was taken down. The fast-fashion giant is now facing criticism over vendor oversight and the use of AI-generated models. 

Vendor linked to the image

“The image in question was provided by a third-party vendor and was removed immediately upon discovery. We have stringent standards for all listings on our platform,” a Shein spokesperson told Straight Arrow News in an email. “We are conducting a thorough investigation, strengthening our monitoring processes, and will take appropriate action against the vendor in line with our policies.”

The listing was attributed to Manfinity, a Detroit-based vendor selling through Shein’s platform. Straight Arrow News attempted to contact the company through the email listed on its website, but received an undeliverable notification.

This is not the first time Manfinity has been accused of using Mangione’s likeness. In March, a Bluesky user shared a screenshot of another Shein listing from the vendor, also appearing to use an AI-generated image of Mangione modeling men’s clothing.

Legal fund donations increasing

Mangione, 27, stands accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. His name and likeness have become cultural touchpoints since then.

In addition to viral memes and even a satirical play titled “Luigi the Musical,” there were calls to boycott an Investigation Discovery documentary exploring his background. A Reddit thread called “Free Luigi” has grown to more than 25,000 members and regularly shares trial updates.

One Reddit user warned followers not to “give in to this corporate-backed narrative.” Another encouraged viewers to avoid the documentary entirely.

The same community tracks donations to Mangione’s legal fund, which have now exceeded $1.2 million. Contributors say that the Shein controversy fueled another surge of support.

One giver from Canada wrote, “Obviously a violation but you have to laugh at SHEIN using Luigi as a model to sell men’s clothing. He is SO TERRIFYING that the shirt was almost sold out before they took it down. LMAO!”

Public donations are also increasing as his next court date approaches on Sept. 16.

Mangione has previously spoken out in a letter to supporters.

“I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” Mangione wrote. “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe. While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive.”

Mangione remains detained without bail.

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