Joe Exotic, renowned as the eccentric star of Netflix's Tiger King, has recently made headlines once more, but this time from the confines of his prison cell. The 61-year-old former zookeeper, currently serving time for his involvement in a murder-for-hire plot and numerous animal abuse charges, has written to former President Donald Trump, begging for clemency and hoping to keep the promise Trump supposedly made during his campaign.
Exotic's letter, filled with emotion and desperation, reveals his fears about the current political climate, particularly concerning the possibility of Kamala Harris winning the upcoming election. "A lot of people went to bat for you in 2021 who have been living in hell ever since then," he expressed, highlighting his concerns for not just himself but for his supporters who he claims are suffering behind bars.
During his rise to fame, Exotic captured the public's imagination with his outlandish personality and controversial lifestyle, becoming one of the most infamous figures during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when Tiger King debuted. But this notoriety came at a steep price—he was convicted back in 2019 for orchestrated a plot to murder animal rights activist Carole Baskin, alongside charges of animal cruelty.
His dramatic story took several turns, including the reduction of his 22-year sentence after appeals successfully argued for reevaluation of his murder-for-hire charges. Now, with a sentence of 21 years, Joe believes he has fresh evidence supporting his claims of innocence and is hoping for another chance, filing for retrial.
Within the letter, Exotic emphasizes the dreadful conditions faced by some of his supporters, stating, "Some of those very people have been stuck in solitary confinement, forced to live like rats, have killed themselves in prison, or have died." His description paints a grim picture of life behind bars, showcasing how dire he perceives the situation to be not only for himself but broadly for others caught up in similar circumstances.
Exotic also made clear his intentions if he were granted freedom. He expressed aspirations to become the new Federal Fish and Wildlife Director under Trump's administration should he be released, reiterative of his longstanding ambition to influence wildlife policy, particularly considering his own controversial history with animals.
Despite serving time, Exotic has not been devoid of romantic interests. He recently announced his engagement to Jorge Marquez, sharing emotional messages on social media about their connection and plans for the future. The romance has garnered interest, especially after his prior relationship with fiancée Seth Posey ended.
"Now, the quest of getting married in prison and getting him asylum or we be leaving America when we both get out," he mused, reflecting on their unconventional love story. His sentiment, "Either way, I wish I would have met him long ago," seems to underline the duality of his reality—hoping for tangible freedom on one hand, and grasping for emotional fulfillment on the other.
Exotic's plea to Trump reflects the complex interplay of celebrity, politics, and justice, raising questions about the power of pardons, the reality of prison life, and the influence of public perception on legal matters. With the 2025 election looming, and Trump hinting at potential pardons for various individuals, Exotic's bid for freedom may stir up dialogue around issues of reform and second chances.
For many, the saga of Joe Exotic remains emblematic of modern America—a blend of flamboyant personalities, serious crimes, and the convoluted justice system. Whether or not Trump will respond to Exotic's plea remains to be seen, but as the world watches, Exotic's story continues to captivate with every twist and turn, reminding many of the unpredictable nature of fame and the quest for redemption.
