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DHS Reviews Reality Show Pitch Featuring Immigrants Competing for Citizenship

The Department of Homeland Security confirms it is vetting a reality TV proposal but denies Secretary Kristi Noem's involvement in the early-stage review.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem suggests a reality show called The American, featuring immigrants competing for citizenship. REUTERS/Anna Rose Layden
Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, testifies in front of the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security in Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2025.
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Overview

  • The proposed show, titled 'The American,' would have pre-vetted immigrants compete in region-specific challenges across the U.S. for a fast-tracked path to citizenship.
  • DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin clarified that the pitch is in the initial stages of review and has not been approved or rejected.
  • Secretary Kristi Noem has not reviewed or supported the proposal, contrary to early speculative reports.
  • Producer Rob Worsoff, who has pitched the idea to previous administrations, describes the show as a celebration of the immigration process, not a punitive competition.
  • The concept has sparked public debate, with critics likening it to dystopian entertainment and questioning the ethics of merging naturalization with reality TV.