From the confines of federal detention, a surprising message of gratitude has emerged, offering a rare glimpse into the mindset of a man awaiting trial for a high-profile murder. Luigi Mangione reflects on 27 things he’s grateful for after celebrating his 27th birthday, a list that has quickly captivated public attention and fueled online discourse.
Currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, Luigi Mangione faces charges related to the alleged Brian Thompson murder. Despite his legal challenges, Mangione shared a detailed list on June 3, 2025, offering an unexpected window into his daily life and philosophical outlook. This list of “27 things grateful for” provides a unique blend of personal reflections, practical observations, and broader societal appreciation.
The inventory begins with expressions of thanks for fundamental supports: friends, family (with a notably redacted entry for privacy), and the new connections forged within his current predicament. He highlights the unexpected richness found in letters, describing how correspondence from over 40 countries offsets the monotony of his surroundings. Gratitude also extends to the “mailroom crew” handling thousands of these communications and his cellmate, who provides companionship and intellectual exchange, even tolerating clutter.
Daily life within the detention center is also acknowledged. Mangione expresses appreciation for the MDC staff and correctional officers, noting their helpfulness, which contrasts with popular media portrayals of such facilities. Simple comforts like “Chicken Thursdays” complemented by Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, and even the practical utility of keyboard shortcuts, find a place on his list. His engagement with the BOP music catalog is also mentioned, with a specific note about listening to “Television: The Drug of the Nation.”
A significant portion of Mangione’s gratitude is directed towards the extensive support network aiding his legal defense. He thanks the over 30,000 individuals globally who have donated more than $1,000,000 to his legal fund, enabling him to retain a world-class defense team, including lead attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo. Donations to his commissary account, which fund everything from hygiene items to Goya sazon and tuna packets, also feature prominently.
The list ventures into more philosophical territory, celebrating the resilience gained from endured trials, a personal “lucky long sleeve,” and the abstract concept of “hearts.” He values “the creatives,” quoting Terence McKenna on the artist’s task to “save the soul of mankind.” Perhaps most strikingly, Mangione expresses appreciation for both “the conservatives” and “the liberals,” acknowledging their respective roles in preserving and advancing society. His gratitude for being born in America, despite its flaws, and for free speech, quoting “George,” further highlights his broader worldview.
Intriguingly, the list contains a few notable discrepancies and omissions that have sparked considerable online buzz. Item 15 is listed as “Latinos for Mangione,” though popular online discussions and fan pages, such as “Latinas for Mangione“, suggest a possible typo given the viral nature of this particular fan movement.
Furthermore, the list skips from item 25 directly to 27, leaving item 26 unmentioned without explanation. Speculation surrounding item 27, which is not explicitly detailed, suggests it might be “Light,” with some online communities, particularly on Reddit, speculating this could be a reference to Light Yagami from Death Note, a popular cultural icon associated with strategic thinking and justice.
The comprehensive nature of the Luigi Mangione gratitude list, combined with these peculiar omissions, has fueled widespread discussion across social media platforms. From memes celebrating “Latinas for Mangione” to debates about the sincerity of his reflections ahead of his 2026 trial, the list serves as a multifaceted document. It reflects personal resilience, practical needs, and a nuanced perspective on societal values, ultimately shaping public perception as his high-profile case continues to unfold.
