The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently evaluating a unique television concept that presents immigrant contestants competing for a chance at acquiring American citizenship. A spokesperson from the department clarified in a statement to CNN that the reality show “is in the very beginning stages of the vetting process” and has not yet received any approval or denial from the relevant authorities. This initiative comes at a time when discussions about immigration and citizenship are highly sensitive in the United States, with many differing opinions regarding the treatment of immigrants.
Producer Rob Worsoff, who has previously worked on popular reality series such as “The Millionaire Matchmaker,” “Duck Dynasty,” and “The Biggest Loser,” is the visionary behind this concept. Worsoff, a Canadian immigrant himself, has pitched this idea for several years, dating back to the Obama Administration. He reported having engaged in three discussions with the DHS regarding his pitch, describing those conversations as being fruitful. However, he mentioned that Secretary Kristi Noem has not participated in these discussions. Worsoff believes that the show could be conceived as a “positive love letter to America,” aiming to showcase the hopeful stories of immigrants while countering critiques that it may undermine the dignity of the participants.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin reiterated the thorough vetting process that all television proposals undergo before receiving either approval or denial. She emphasized that the DHS receives hundreds of television show proposals annually, varying widely from documentaries about border operations by ICE and CBP to white-collar crime investigations by HSI. The department is meticulous in their evaluation of these pitches, aiming to ensure that they align with their values and objectives.
Interestingly, both the Daily Mail and the Wall Street Journal have touched upon the show, with McLaughlin refuting parts of the Daily Mail’s earlier reporting. She claimed that Secretary Noem has neither “backed” nor reviewed any pitch for a scripted or reality show, clarifying the official stance on the matter. Worsoff defines his concept as “The Biggest Loser” for immigration, emphasizing that contestants will not be losing — rather, they are being offered a substantial opportunity to better their lives.
He insists, “There’s nobody who loses on this show — it’s ridiculous to even suggest otherwise.” Worsoff highlights that the contestants are hopeful future Americans, all of whom have a legitimate purpose in the immigration line. Instead of tearing down participants, the concept aims to uplift them by putting their stories in the spotlight, potentially providing them with job opportunities and humanizing the immigration process.
Worsoff’s pitch for the show, which bears a working title “The American,” aims to encompass a wide array of demographics, ages, and talent among the contestants. The show intends to capture the emotional rollercoaster experienced by participants while illustrating the profound honor of being American through their eyes. Each episode is expected to incorporate various segments such as a heritage challenge reflecting the unique aspects of American culture, aligned with specific contest locations like New York or San Francisco. For instance, a challenge might revolve around “gold rush” history in California, showcasing the rich tapestry of American heritage.
Towards the end of each episode, Worsoff envisions a town hall meeting similar to a presidential election, where local citizens can cast their votes to choose which participant they would prefer to represent their state. This facet of the show enhances the sense of community involvement and democratic engagement, creating a holistic viewing experience that resonates with viewers.
While acknowledging that the stakes for contestants are significant, Worsoff affirmed that this intensity is essential to the fabric of competitive reality television. In his commentary, he stated, “Yeah, I’m not going to apologize for that fact that there are real stakes on the show. I don’t think that’s a bad thing, I think that’s a good thing.” This encapsulates a bold vision for a show that seeks not only to entertain but to inspire and provoke thought surrounding the deeply consequential topic of immigration and citizenship in America.