Tiger King star Joe Exotic has requested release from prison following an 'aggressive' prostate cancer diagnosis. The 57-year-old, whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage, is currently serving a 22-year sentence for a murder-for-hire plot and animal abuse.
His lawyer, John M Phillips, confirmed the diagnosis on Twitter, stating they are 'diligent working towards' his freedom. Phillips told the BBC that 'justice in America is very slow' and they aim to expedite a resentencing hearing or secure compassionate release for medical treatment outside prison.
Exotic, in a letter, proclaimed his innocence and asked the world to be his 'voice' so he can 'enjoy what life I have left with my loved ones'. He was convicted of attempting to hire a hitman to kill rival Carole Baskin, owner of a Florida animal sanctuary.
Netflix has secured rights to a second season of Tiger King, with several spin-offs planned. Meanwhile, an Amazon series starring Nicolas Cage as Exotic was scrapped, with producers citing the story as 'no longer relevant'.
