In a development as surreal as the documentary that made him famous, Joseph Maldonado-Passage—better known as Joe Exotic—has made a bombshell claim from behind bars. The self-styled 'Tiger King' alleges that former President Donald Trump is actively 'considering' granting him a presidential pardon.
The flamboyant zookeeper is currently serving a staggering 22-year sentence for a litany of crimes, most notably his conviction for a murder-for-hire plot against his arch-rival, big cat activist Carole Baskin. He was also found guilty on multiple counts of animal abuse.
A Glimmer of Hope from Prison
According to the claims, the news was delivered to Joe Exotic by a member of Trump's own team. This has sent ripples of speculation through the media, questioning the veracity of the claim and the potential political motives behind such a move.
The original 'Tiger King' documentary became a global sensation during the pandemic lockdowns, captivating audiences with its twisted tale of feuding big cat enthusiasts, eccentric characters, and alleged criminal activities. Joe Exotic's flamboyant personality and bitter war with Carole Baskin became the stuff of internet legend.
History of Seeking a Pardon
This is not the first time Joe Exotic has pinned his hopes on Donald Trump. During Trump's presidency, Exotic's legal team launched a highly publicised campaign for clemency, even hiring a limousine to circle Washington D.C. with a giant billboard pleading his case. At the time, Trump acknowledged the campaign, stating he would 'take a look' but no pardon was forthcoming.
The latest claim adds another layer of intrigue to this long-running saga. Legal experts remain highly sceptical, noting the immense length of his sentence and the seriousness of his convictions. Whether there is any truth to the claim or if it is merely a desperate plea for attention remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: the strange and unpredictable story of the Tiger King is far from over.
