Luigi Mangione, who stands accused of the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has found solace in pop music during his time at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. In a letter that surfaced via TMZ, Mangione revealed his recent musical explorations, having started to listen to artists Taylor Swift and Charli XCX after a fictional list of his favorite singers circulated online.
In the letter, Mangione, 27, disclosed that he downloaded tracks from both artists to his prison tablet just last week, admitting he had never engaged with their music prior to this experience. He humorously noted that rather than reject the “phony list,” he chose to embrace the opportunity to sample their songs.
Among the tracks he listened to, Mangione mentioned “Cardigan” from Swift’s acclaimed 2020 album, Folklore, which he played during his laps in the prison yard. He also expressed a fondness for Lil Durk’s 2013 hit “Dis Ain’t What U Want,” even designating it as a favorite. In his letter, dated June 3, Mangione conveyed his appreciation for the small comforts he experiences while incarcerated, such as receiving letters of support, enjoying meals, and finding moments of tranquility amid the ongoing legal proceedings.
Inmates at the Metropolitan Detention Center are allowed to purchase internet-free tablets through the commissary, and earlier this year, a judge granted Mangione permission to use a laptop for case preparation.
Facing significant legal challenges, Mangione is charged both at the state and federal level for allegedly shooting Brian Thompson, 50, in Midtown Manhattan on December 4, 2024. While two of his 11 state charges were recently dropped due to insufficient evidence, he still confronts four federal charges, one of which could potentially result in the death penalty if he is convicted.
Mangione’s lawyer, Arthur Aidala, described him as a “model prisoner” who adheres to the rules and assists new inmates in acclimating to life within the detention center. Despite the severity of the charges, Mangione has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all counts. Supporters have launched a legal defense fund that has amassed over $1.3 million as he prepares for trial, now with a broadened musical perspective and a tougher playlist curated by his fellow inmates.