The proposed reality show would feature challenges such as gold mining in California and car manufacturing in Detroit.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering a reality TV show where migrants would compete for American citizenship, according to Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
The concept involves contestants participating in American-themed tasks like gold panning in California and car assembly in Detroit, as outlined in a pitch viewed by several media outlets. The show would reportedly culminate in a town hall and final vote to determine the winner.
The series, tentatively titled ‘The American’, is the brainchild of Rob Worsoff, a producer known for shows like ‘The Millionaire Matchmaker’, ‘Duck Dynasty’, and ‘The Biggest Loser’.
The Daily Mail initially reported the story on Thursday, suggesting that DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was a strong proponent of the show.
However, McLaughlin refuted the report on X on Friday, labeling it as “false” and “an affront to journalism.” She stated that Noem is not “even aware” of the reality TV show proposal.
McLaughlin explained that the DHS receives numerous TV show proposals annually, each undergoing a rigorous evaluation process before a decision is made. The pitch for ‘The American’ “has not received approval or denial by staff,” she clarified.
The show’s concept, according to the pitch, is that “contestants will represent a wide demographic of ages, ethnicities, and talents. We will join in the laughter, tears, frustration and joy – hearing their backstories – as we are reminded of how amazing it is to be American, through the eyes of 12 wonderful people, who want nothing more than to have what we have – and what we often take for granted: the freedom, opportunity and honor of what it means to be American.”
Worsoff, a Canadian immigrant, assured the Wall Street Journal on Friday that no contestants would face penalties or deportation if they lost. “This is not ‘The Hunger Games’ for immigrants,” he stated.
In a CNN interview, Worsoff mentioned that he initially presented the show idea to the DHS during Barack Obama’s presidency. He also said he has recently had three meetings with DHS officials about the show. “I feel like we are trending in a good way,” he added.
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