The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly reviewing a proposal for a reality TV show in which immigrants would compete for American citizenship. According to The Daily Mail, the show—tentatively titled The American—was pitched by Canadian-born producer Rob Worsoff, known for his work on reality series such as Duck Dynasty and Dating Naked.
The concept involves 12 contestants arriving by boat—dubbed “The Citizen Ship”—at Ellis Island before embarking on a cross-country journey by train. Along the way, they would compete in various “American” challenges, such as rolling logs in Wisconsin or gold mining in San Francisco. The winner would be granted U.S. citizenship in a ceremonial event at the Capitol, while also receiving prizes like 1 million American Airlines points, a $10,000 Starbucks gift card, or a lifetime supply of gasoline.
While The Daily Mail claims DHS Secretary Kristi Noem supports the idea, a DHS spokesperson denied any involvement. “Secretary Noem has not backed or reviewed any such pitch,” said Tricia McLaughlin. She added that DHS receives hundreds of television pitches annually, all of which undergo a thorough review process.
Worsoff emphasized that his goal is to celebrate immigration and provoke a national conversation about American identity. “As an immigrant myself, I want to highlight what it means to become an American through the eyes of those who desire it most,” he said.
This news follows criticism directed at Secretary Noem by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), who recently mocked Noem for her theatrical appearances during ICE operations, dubbing her “Cosplay Kristi” and “ICE Barbie.”