The Department of Homeland Security is exploring the idea of a reality TV show featuring immigrants competing for opportunities to gain U.S. citizenship.
The concept, introduced by Canadian producer Rob Wassoff, would involve contestants facing various U.S.-themed challenges. Wassoff has worked on shows like “Duck Dynasty” and “Date Naked.”
One proposed challenge would have participants trying to extract the most gold from a California mine, while another might involve assembling a Ford Model T for a trip to a Detroit auto factory, according to the show’s pitch deck, which was reviewed by the Wall Street Journal.
Wassoff indicated that the contestants are already “in the system” regarding their immigration status.
DHS Deputy Chief Tricia McLaughlin stated that the concept is currently undergoing a “full review process,” but emphasized that this is just one of many proposals the department receives annually.
The DHS evaluates hundreds of pitches each year, ranging from documentaries about ICE and CBP operations to investigative shows by HSI. McLaughlin shared this information in a post on X.
She mentioned that “each proposal undergoes a thorough review process prior to rejection or approval,” highlighting that this particular pitch hasn’t been accepted or denied yet.
Additionally, McLaughlin addressed rumors suggesting that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was directly involved with Wassoff concerning the pitch, stating that Noem doesn’t support or even know about the scripted or reality show proposals.
Wassoff, on the other hand, defended the show’s premise, claiming it’s not as grim as it may seem, clarifying that participants who do not win wouldn’t face deportation.
“This is not an immigrant ‘Hunger Games,'” Wassoff told the Wall Street Journal.
The context of this potential show also reflects Secretary Noem’s tenure at Homeland Security, which has been characterized by a penchant for dramatic visuals. Recently, she was photographed riding an ATV along the U.S.-Mexico border, reminiscent of an action hero, and she had previously done a similar photo opportunity at the Crime Convoy prison in El Salvador.
