The Department of Homeland Security is reviewing a controversial reality TV show proposal that would have immigrants compete in American-themed challenges for a chance at citizenship.
At a Glance
- Canadian producer Rob Worsoff has pitched a reality show where immigrants would compete in challenges for U.S. citizenship
- Proposed challenges include gold mining in California and assembling a Ford Model T in Detroit
- The show would culminate with a participant being sworn in as a U.S. citizen
- DHS officials confirm the proposal is under review but has not reached Secretary Kristi Noem
- Producers emphasize no contestants would face deportation for losing
Reality TV Meets Immigration Policy
A new proposal merging entertainment with immigration has caught the attention of federal officials. The Department of Homeland Security is currently evaluating a reality TV competition where immigrants already in the system would compete for American citizenship. The concept comes from Canadian-born producer Rob Worsoff, known for creating shows like “Duck Dynasty” and “Dating Naked,” who envisions contestants participating in challenges celebrating American traditions across different states.
According to DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, the department regularly fields various television and film proposals, all of which undergo thorough vetting. This particular pitch is still in early review stages and has not reached the desk of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who reportedly remains unaware of the proposal. The show would involve immigrants who are already part of the immigration system, not bringing in new participants specifically for television.
The US Department of Homeland Security is considering a reality TV show where immigrants compete for citizenship through contests like US history and science quizzes, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Canadian immigrant and producer Rob Worsoff pitched the idea, aiming for…
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Celebrating American Traditions Through Competition
The proposed show would feature challenges based on distinctly American experiences and traditions. Contestants might pan for gold in California, assemble a Ford Model T in Detroit, or participate in rocket assembly and launching in other states. These activities aim to highlight various aspects of American history, industry, and innovation while testing participants’ adaptability and skills. The series would conclude with a citizenship ceremony for the winner.
“The pitch generally was a celebration of being an American and what a privilege it is to be able to be a citizen of the United States of America,” Ms. McLaughlin said. “It’s important to revive civic duty.”
Worsoff emphasizes that the show aims to spark national conversation about American identity and values. Unlike many reality competitions focused on elimination and drama, this concept reportedly focuses on celebrating immigrants’ journeys and humanizing their experiences. The producer has been clear that the show would not negatively impact any participant’s immigration status, regardless of their performance in the competition.
Government Involvement and Precedent
This isn’t the first time DHS has considered participating in media projects. The department previously collaborated with filmmakers for the 2017 documentary “Immigration Nation.” However, a reality show format presents different considerations and potential complications. The current proposal is working its way through standard departmental review processes, where officials evaluate potential legal, ethical, and practical implications.
“We need a national conversation of what it means to be American,” he said. “We need to be reminded of how proud and how much of an honor it is to be American.”
McLaughlin has made it clear that Secretary Noem has neither backed nor is even aware of the proposal at this stage. The concept aligns with some aspects of Noem’s tenure, which has included high-profile border visits and action-style photo opportunities. However, using reality television as a mechanism for citizenship would represent a significant departure from traditional immigration processes and could generate substantial debate about the appropriate role of entertainment in serious government functions.
Addressing potential criticism, Worsoff stated firmly: “This isn’t ‘The Hunger Games’ for immigrants.”
