Washington, United States — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed it's reviewing a pitch for a reality competition series in which immigrants would compete for American citizenship—an idea that has raised eyebrows, sparked outrage, and ignited a fresh cultural controversy.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the proposal was submitted by Canadian-American producer Rob Worsoff, whose team envisions a show titled The American. The premise? Immigrants arrive at Ellis Island, compete in Americana-themed challenges like mining for gold, assembling Model T chassis, and balancing on logs in Wisconsin—all for a shot at the ultimate prize: U.S. citizenship.
DHS confirms concept is under review
While the idea has not been approved, DHS spokesperson confirmed in a statement that the proposal is being “thoroughly vetted.”
“We need to revive patriotism and civic duty in this country,” McLaughlin said. “We’re happy to review out-of-the-box pitches.”
The pitch, as seen by multiple outlets, imagines 12 contestants arriving aboard “The Citizen Ship” and being welcomed by a naturalized celebrity host—names floated include Sofia Vergara, Ryan Reynolds, and Mila Kunis. Contestants would travel cross-country on a train dubbed “The American,” competing in themed challenges until one remains. The winner would receive their citizenship in a live ceremony on the steps of Capitol Hill.
Prizes, patriotism, and PR nightmares
Those eliminated wouldn’t leave empty-handed. The slide deck reportedly includes “iconically American” consolation prizes, like a million American Airlines miles, a lifetime supply of 76 gas, or a $10,000 Starbucks gift card.
Though DHS denied Kristi Noem’s direct involvement—despite Diet Prada referring to her as “ICE Barbie” and citing reports of her alleged support—McLaughlin called the concept “a good one” and confirmed it was still in the early stages.
Critics online have compared the idea to dystopian satire, calling it "The Hunger Games for immigrants." Supporters, meanwhile, argue it could promote civic education in an unconventional but engaging way.
A nation of immigrants… and influencers?
The proposal comes at a time when the U.S. government is also moving to restrict immigration protections like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals from countries like Afghanistan, Haiti, and Venezuela. DHS has led efforts under President Trump’s administration to increase immigration raids and deportations, making the reality show’s tone even more jarring to detractors.
“Welcome to America,” one critic wrote. “Where the president is a reality TV star, and citizenship is now a game show.”
(With reports from AFP, The Wall Street Journal, The Daily Mail, and Diet Prada )
