Joe Exotic, the prominent figure from Netflix’s true crime series Tiger King, is currently seeking clemency from US President Donald Trump following the deportation of his husband, Jorge Marquez. Exotic, whose real name is Joseph Allen Maldonado, announced his marriage to Marquez while they were both incarcerated, with the wedding taking place in November last year.
Over the recent weekend, Marquez was released from prison, where he had been held for immigration violations, and was subsequently deported to Mexico. In a heartfelt appeal posted on social media platform X, Exotic expressed his mixed feelings about the deportation process. Although he acknowledged the legal aspects of Marquez’s deportation, he felt that America should ensure the safe return of individuals seeking refuge.
Exotic shared concerns that Marquez had been "dumped at the border" by US immigration agents and faced dangers during his journey, reportedly being attacked and robbed by cartel members while travelling to Monterrey. In his plea, he tagged Trump’s account, reminding the president of his past support during the 2016 election, and urged for permission to accompany his husband to Mexico.
Furthermore, Exotic pledged to remain with Marquez in Mexico until the latter could return to the US legally if he were granted a pardon. Exotic, currently serving a 21-year sentence for his conviction related to a murder-for-hire plot against animal rights activist Carole Baskin, continues to profess his innocence on social media.
As his situation unfolds, Exotic’s dramatic life story continues to capture public attention, underscored by his passionate appeals for love and justice during his ongoing incarceration.