Internet Sensation Emerges Amid High-Profile Documentary Developments
In a bizarre turn of events that blends true crime intrigue with social media phenomenon, a skateboarder named Guy Azulay has become an overnight sensation due to his striking resemblance to Luigi Mangione, the suspected killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Azulay’s recent social media post showcasing his skateboarding skills quickly transformed into a viral sensation, with Instagram users flooding the comments section with remarks like “Welcome back Luigi,” highlighting the uncanny similarity between Azulay and Mangione.
Speaking exclusively to TMZ Sports, Azulay displayed a remarkably nonchalant attitude toward his sudden internet fame. “Like, I don’t know, of all things to blow up, it’s just because I look like someone else. But, not too mad at it, I guess,” he said, describing the situation as “a bit weird” and “kinda funny.”
Emphasizing his lack of interest in capitalizing on the unexpected attention, Azulay noted, “I don’t see harm coming from it.” His existing professional connections, including sponsorships with brands like New Balance, WKND, Carhartt, and Pepper Griptape, underscore his established career beyond this viral moment.
Two documentary projects announced
The viral sensation coincides with two high-profile documentary projects about the Mangione case, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.
Two-time Emmy nominee Stephen Robert Morse is making a documentary that promises a nuanced exploration of the case. “This case is complex and raises important questions about vigilantism, the devastating cost of a privatized healthcare system, and the inevitability of violence when peaceful change is seen as impossible,” Morse told Variety.
Morse emphasized his commitment to a balanced approach, stating, “Every story is multidimensional, and I believe in treating all participants with kindness and fairness.”
Simultaneously, Anonymous Content and Alex Gibney’s Jigsaw Productions are preparing their own documentary focused on the December 4 fatal shooting in Manhattan, adding to the growing media attention surrounding the case.
Beyond the viral moment
Beyond his newfound internet fame, Azulay continues to pursue his diverse interests, including his musical career as a member of the band tankerlow. His joke about potentially serving as a stunt double for a Mangione documentary has only added to the surreal nature of the unfolding story.
The viral skateboarder’s resemblance to Mangione represents a strange intersection of true crime, social media, and documentary filmmaking, capturing the internet’s imagination at a moment of heightened media scrutiny.
As the story continues to develop, the line between reality, speculation, and entertainment remains tantalizingly blurred.