The death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in November 2023 prompted a wave of reactions, particularly through dark humor and memes. Much like the reactions to the death of Henry Kissinger, whose actions were heavily criticized for causing immense suffering, people found themselves joking about Thompson’s murder due to his involvement in an industry seen as cruel and profit-driven.
His death, by a shooter who allegedly etched “delay” and “depose” on the bullets, brought into focus the predatory practices of health insurance companies, which have long been accused of denying care to the sick to maintain high profits.
The internet exploded with jokes about Thompson’s demise, making light of the situation in ways that might seem crude but reflect widespread frustration with the healthcare system.
From comments about him being “out of network” to darker reflections on whether he would have received proper medical treatment, the humor served as a form of collective release. In a short time, memes surrounding Thompson’s death became viral, mirroring the reactions seen in the past when other controversial figures like Jerry Falwell or even the Queen passed away.
The public’s response to Thompson’s death wasn’t just about making jokes for the sake of it. There was a deeper resentment toward the healthcare policies he represented. UnitedHealthcare, under his leadership, faced multiple accusations of mishandling patient care, using faulty AI to deny coverage, and even insider trading.
The company’s policies were directly linked to life-or-death outcomes for patients, with millions of people left underinsured, overcharged, or outright denied critical care. As a result, his death became symbolic of the larger issue with the American healthcare system, one in which profits are often prioritized over people’s lives.
Brian Thompson’s Death Sparks Outrage and Dark Humor, Highlighting Frustration with U.S. Healthcare System
Despite the humor, there is an underlying acknowledgment that this kind of death—resulting from a predatory system—shouldn’t be met with mourning. It’s not that people are devoid of empathy, but rather, they are reflecting the cruel indifference that governs the healthcare industry.
For many, Thompson’s role in an industry that turns life-saving care into a commodity was not one worth mourning. Instead, his death represents the failure of a broken system, one that has caused unnecessary suffering for countless individuals.
This widespread reaction to Thompson’s death also reflects a broader sentiment about the state of healthcare in America. Health insurance companies, such as UnitedHealthcare, have long been criticized for their exploitation of patients, with many people finding themselves unable to afford necessary medical care.
The absurdity of these systems, where life-and-death decisions are made by faceless bureaucrats, leaves many feeling helpless and frustrated. People don’t just feel angry at these companies; they also recognize that any change in this system would likely require something radical, a complete overhaul of the way healthcare is structured.
Finally, the death of Thompson occurred on the same day as another tragic shooting incident, and it serves as a stark reminder of the daily violence and injustices that plague society. The mundane nature of death in a world where tragedies—whether from gun violence or systemic neglect—are so prevalent is a sobering reality.
While the internet’s reaction to Thompson’s death may seem callous, it reflects a deep-seated anger and disillusionment with a system that prioritizes profit over human life. Ultimately, Thompson’s death and the reactions it generated highlight the need for radical change in the way healthcare is approached and delivered in America.
