Yes, you read that right. The Department of Homeland Security is reportedly reviewing a pitch for a new reality TV show where immigrants would compete in challenges to earn U.S. citizenship. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the series idea was proposed by Duck Dynasty producer Rob Worsoff. He claims the show is a celebration of American values—though many are already raising eyebrows.
The Pitch: A Reality Series Called “The American”
Worsoff reportedly titled the concept “The American.” His Facebook post describes the show as a series where immigrants would complete “mental or physical” challenges. The prize? A shot at U.S. citizenship. He insists the idea isn’t meant to be cruel but rather “a heartfelt series with tears of joy and fun loud American challenges.”
Worsoff wrote:
“‘The American’ is a celebration of what it means to be… well… American – At a time when our morale is at an all-time low.”
He also shared that this isn’t the first time he’s pitched the concept. In fact, he claims he floated a similar version during both the Obama and Biden administrations, but it was previously rejected. Now, the conversation appears to have resurfaced.
This pitch, however, isn’t officially in production. Instead, it’s undergoing internal review—which leads us to what Homeland Security had to say.
Homeland Security Confirms It’s Reviewing the Proposal (H
In a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter, Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for public affairs at DHS, confirmed that the department receives hundreds of pitches every year.
She stated:
“The Department of Homeland Security receives hundreds of television show pitches a year, ranging from documentaries surrounding ICE and CBP border operation to white collar investigations by HSI. Each proposal undergoes a thorough vetting process prior to denial or approval.”
McLaughlin’s comment doesn’t confirm that the show will move forward—but it does confirm that the pitch was received and is under review. This could mean Homeland Security is seriously weighing the public and political implications of such a project.
Public Reaction and Ethical Concerns
Naturally, the internet had thoughts—and most of them weren’t subtle. Critics immediately compared the concept to dystopian storylines like The Hunger Games or Black Mirror, calling it exploitative and performative.
Legal experts and immigration advocates have also expressed concern. The idea of “gamifying” immigration and U.S. citizenship raises ethical questions about dignity, fairness, and the real struggles immigrants face daily.
Even though Worsoff describes the show as uplifting, many believe the premise risks turning the U.S. immigration process into a spectacle. And with the country already deeply divided on immigration policy, the show could easily inflame tensions.
Homeland Security’s Reality Series Pitch Sparks Major Debate
While Homeland Security has not greenlit the reality show, the fact that a proposal like this is even under consideration is raising major concerns. From questions about ethics to public backlash, “The American” may prove to be more controversial than patriotic.
As of now, it’s just a pitch. But it’s one that touches on real lives and a system already under intense scrutiny. Whether or not the show ever makes it to air, the conversation around it has already begun.