Washington, D.C.: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reviewing a proposal for a reality television show titled The American, where immigrants would compete in various challenges for a chance at expedited U.S. citizenship.
Pitched by Canadian-born producer Rob Worsoff, known for his work on Duck Dynasty, the concept has garnered both interest and criticism as it navigates early evaluation stages.
Key Facts:
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The American proposes 12 legal immigrants participating in challenges across the U.S., with the winner receiving expedited citizenship.
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DHS confirms the proposal is under review but has not been approved; Secretary Kristi Noem has not endorsed the project.
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The show's concept includes tasks like gold panning in San Francisco and assembling a Model T in Detroit.
Worsoff envisions the show as a celebration of the immigrant journey, aiming to humanize participants and highlight their aspirations.
He emphasizes that all contestants would be volunteers and that the show would not result in deportations for those eliminated.
Despite Worsoff's intentions, the proposal has sparked controversy.
Critics argue that transforming the path to citizenship into entertainment trivializes the challenges immigrants face.
Comparisons have been drawn to dystopian narratives, with some labeling it a "Hunger Games-style" approach to immigration.
DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin clarified that while the department receives numerous television pitches annually, each undergoes thorough vetting.
She stated, "Secretary Noem has not reviewed the pitch," countering reports suggesting her endorsement.
The proposal's future remains uncertain as it continues through DHS's evaluation process.
Whether The American will proceed to production or be shelved depends on forthcoming decisions by the department and potential network partners.
Do You Know?
In 2004, a controversial show titled Gana la Verde aired, promising legal assistance for green card acquisition to its winners.
The program faced backlash for misleading advertising that suggested automatic green card awards.
Key Terms:
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DHS (Department of Homeland Security): A U.S. federal agency responsible for public security, including immigration and border control.
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Expedited Citizenship: A faster-than-normal process for obtaining U.S. citizenship, typically requiring special circumstances or qualifications.
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Reality Television: A genre of television programming that documents unscripted real-life situations, often featuring unknown individuals rather than professional actors.