In a December 10 episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” host Joe Rogan and guests Quentin Tarantino and producer Roger Avary discussed the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, suggesting public reaction to the killing reflected broader frustration with the healthcare industry.
Thompson, 50, was fatally shot while walking to a Manhattan hotel where UnitedHealth Group was holding its annual investor conference.
During the podcast episode recorded before the suspect’s capture, Rogan, 57, speculated about the shooter’s motivation. “I think this guy, if I had to guess, was some guy who got [expletive] over,” the UFC commentator said. “Apparently, that company is really bad at denying claims.”
The conversation highlighted ongoing scrutiny of UnitedHealthcare’s business practices. The company faces multiple lawsuits over its use of algorithms to automatically deny claims, including a class action lawsuit.
Rogan’s critique of the healthcare system extends beyond recent events. In an earlier episode featuring guests Calley Means and Casey Means, M.D., the podcast host explored issues within both the healthcare and food industries. The discussion centered on how special interests have influenced these sectors, leading to declining health outcomes and the rise of chronic diseases.
The podcast host also participated in a Senate hearing on the healthcare industry and chronic disease crisis, where he provided testimony about the influence of pharmaceutical companies and food corporations on public health. During his appearance, Rogan emphasized the need for greater transparency in healthcare regulation.
Law enforcement officials arrested Luigi Mangione, 26, at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, following a five-day manhunt. Authorities found him carrying a ghost gun, masks, a U.S. passport, and written materials connecting him to the attack.
The suspect, a University of Pennsylvania graduate, was reported missing by his Maryland real estate family last month after losing contact following back surgery. Mangione faces charges of second-degree murder in New York, along with additional charges in Pennsylvania for possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery, and providing false identification to police.
Investigators recovered what they described as a manifesto-style document from Mangione containing statements about “parasitic” health insurance companies and corporate greed. The document included a direct message to federal authorities: “To the Feds, I’ll keep this short, because I do respect what you do for our country. To save you a lengthy investigation, I state plainly that I wasn’t working with anyone.”
The case has sparked significant online discussion, with many commenters expressing solidarity with the accused rather than sympathy for the victim. The reaction appears centered on frustration with the U.S. healthcare system and health insurance practices.
Recent scrutiny of UnitedHealthcare revealed the company has faced criticism for its claims-handling practices. The New York Times reported that bullet casings found at the crime scene had the words “deny” and “delay” written on them, terms associated with insurance industry practices. The company reported over $16 billion in operating profits last year.
Mangione remains in Pennsylvania custody while contesting extradition to New York. Law enforcement continues to investigate potential motives, including whether chronic back pain and grievances against the medical industry influenced his actions.
A crowdfunding campaign for Mangione has raised over $50,000, drawing concern from law enforcement officials about the suspect being portrayed as a martyr.
Law enforcement officials expressed concern about social media users advocating for additional violence against CEOs. Several crowdfunding platforms and e-commerce sites have removed campaigns and merchandise related to Mangione.
Healthcare executives face increased threats, and the incident has sparked discussions about potential new legislation targeting the health insurance sector.