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Shein removed a men's shirt from its website after an AI-generated image resembling accused murderer Luigi Mangione appeared on it. The company blamed a third-party supplier and said it immediately removed the content.
Screenshots of the floral button-down shirt circulated widely on social media, showing that the $10 item was nearly sold out before being removed. The fast-fashion giant is currently facing criticism for its poor supplier oversight and use of AI-generated models.
Supplier Linked to the Image
"The image in question was provided by a third-party supplier and was immediately removed upon discovery. We have strict standards for all products on our platform," a Shein spokesperson told Straight Arrow News in an email. "We are conducting a thorough investigation, have enhanced our monitoring processes, and will take appropriate action against this supplier in accordance with our policies."
The listing is from Detroit-based Manfinity, which sells through the Shein platform. Straight Arrow News attempted to contact the company through the email address listed on its website but received an undeliverable notification.
This isn't the first time Manfinity has been accused of using Mangione's image. In March of this year, a Bluesky user shared a screenshot of another listing from the same seller on Shein that also appeared to use an AI-generated image of Mangione wearing men's clothing.
Donations to the legal fund continue to grow.
Mangione, 27, is charged with the December 2024 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Since then, his name and likeness have become cultural touchstones.
In addition to viral memes and a satirical show called "Luigi the Musical," there have been calls for a boycott of an Investigation Discovery documentary exploring his background. A Reddit thread called "Free Luigi" has grown to over 25,000 members and regularly shares updates on the trial.
One Reddit user warned followers not to "succumb to this corporate-backed narrative." Another encouraged viewers to avoid the documentary altogether.
The community also tracks donations to Mangione's legal fund, which has now surpassed $1.2 million. Donors say the Shein controversy has sparked another wave of support.
One donor from Canada wrote, "This is clearly illegal, but it's ridiculous that SHEIN would use Luigi as a model for men's clothing. He's so scary, the shirts were almost sold out before they were pulled. Haha!"
As Luigi's next court date (September 16th) approaches, public donations are increasing.
Mangione previously expressed his views in a letter to supporters.
"I am deeply moved and grateful to everyone who has written to me to share their stories and express their support," Mangione wrote. "This support transcends politics, race, and even class, as letters have poured into the MDC from across the country and around the world. While I cannot respond to most of them, please know that I read every one I receive."
Mangione remains in custody without bail.