The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken down a promotional deportation video after comedian Theo Fong claimed it used his footage without consent.
Theo Fong voiced his opposition to the DHS on Wednesday, responding to a video that showcased him with the title “Goodbye.” The clip began with a viral segment of Fong saying, “The Deported Man, Hear Goodbye,” followed by a montage of deportations, featuring phrases like “250 days,” “self-abolition of 1.6 million,” and “400,000 expulsions.” The video included a statement attributed to President Donald Trump, suggesting that immigrants should “stop coming” because of the agency’s credibility.
In response, Fong tweeted:
“yooo dhs I did not approve of using this. I know you know my address so please send me a check. And defeat this and remove me from your ‘banger’ deportation video. When it comes to immigration, my thoughts and mind are far more subtle than this video allows. good bye!”
The DHS promptly removed the video shortly after Fong’s comment.
The Louisiana-born comedian has gained prominence in various political and cultural discussions through his podcast. Recently, he was a part of a conversation around online speech and censorship, particularly following an episode with Roseanne Barr regarding “hate speech” during the 2020 election. That podcast re-emerged on Twitter later on.
His platform has developed into a mix of pop culture and politics. Notably, his interview with Donald Trump in 2024 was praised by fans as one of the “most authentic” dialogues the president has been part of. Viewers appreciated Fong’s casual approach, often addressing Trump in a relaxed manner. Later that year, Trump’s running mate, Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), suggested a “military response at the tropical border” to tackle drug cartels, which his audience responded to favorably, asserting that Vance was “normal.”
Fong’s exchanges with Trump have transcended simple humor, often delving into substantial policy discussions. He commended Trump for addressing issues in the U.S. health system, criticizing how hospitals and insurance companies obscure their prices from patients. In April 2025, Fong supported Trump’s tariff strategies, referencing the struggles of American manufacturing that he observed during his travels.
Fong has also made it clear he welcomes guests from across the political spectrum, even inviting Vice President Kamala Harris after Trump reportedly avoided interviews. This summer, he notably referred to the Israeli attacks amid conflicts with Hamas as “a genocide happening while he was alive here,” which drew both acclaim and caution from others.
As reported, Trump’s appearances on various podcasts, including Fong’s, have been crucial in reaching younger male voters. Campaign advisor Alex Bruzewitz credited podcasting as a central element of Trump’s electoral success, with traditional media’s influence waning in the face of comedians who blend entertainment and dialogue with leading figures.
