In an era where reality shows turn everyday people into overnight celebrities, could the next step be turning immigration into primetime entertainment? That’s the idea Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem appears to be leaning into—and it’s sparking serious controversy.
A Game Show to Win Citizenship?
Yep, you read that right.
Secretary Noem is backing a pitch for a reality competition series called The American.
Think Survivor or The Amazing Race, but instead of winning cash or fame, contestants battle it out for U.S. citizenship.
The concept comes from Rob Worsoff, a reality TV veteran behind shows like Duck Dynasty and Millionaire Matchmaker.
In a detailed 35-page proposal, Worsoff lays out a vision where 12 immigrants travel across the U.S., competing in regional challenges—like building rockets in Florida or log-rolling in Wisconsin—all for the grand prize of becoming an American citizen.
Citizenship as Entertainment?
Contestants, already pre-vetted for eligibility, would arrive on a symbolic “Citizenship Ship” docking at Ellis Island.
They’d be greeted by a celebrity host—names floated include Sofia Vergara, Ryan Reynolds, and Mila Kunis—and gifted with personalized baseball gloves to kick off their journey.
As the show progresses, they’d crisscross the country, learning about local cultures and facing challenges steeped in Americana.
In one episode, they might dig for clams in Maine. In another, they’d race to assemble a Ford Model T in Detroit.
All of this would culminate in a live finale in Washington, D.C., where the winner would be sworn in as a U.S. citizen.
Officials Are Involved, Critics Are Concerned
According to DailyMail.com, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is more involved than you’d expect.
Officials from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may even help tally viewer votes.
Noem herself is said to be pushing hard for the show’s production, even seeking partnerships with platforms like Netflix.
However, DHS spokespeople claim Noem hasn’t been officially briefed—though other insiders confirm she supports the project.
Image Over Substance?
For critics, this is just the latest example of Noem prioritizing flash over function.
Since taking the reins at Homeland Security, she’s leaned into dramatic, highly produced moments—like posing with a machine gun next to border agents or tweeting about raids before they concluded.
Her approach has sparked backlash not just from political opponents, but even from within her own department.
One insider asked, “When will Secretary Noem stop prioritizing staged photo ops and media stunts?” Others worry the show would trivialize the immigration process and overshadow real issues at the border.
What the Show Promises
Despite concerns, Worsoff is optimistic.
He sees The American as a celebration of immigration, a way to spark national conversation, and a chance to show what becoming American really means.
He also notes that even those who don’t win will have an edge in the citizenship process, since all contestants would be vetted beforehand.
Oh—and don’t expect just a green card.
The prize list includes “very American” goodies like a $10,000 Starbucks gift card and a lifetime supply of gas.
Critics Aren’t Buying It
Not everyone is convinced this show is about “celebrating” anything.
Many view it as a thinly veiled PR move at a time when the department has failed to deliver on core promises—like Trump’s deportation mandates.
High-profile conservatives like Meghan McCain and Megyn Kelly have criticized Noem for turning serious national security issues into entertainment fodder.
Even her entrance into DHS was performative.
Insiders say she strutted on stage at her first town hall to the tune of “Hot Mama.”
Since then, she’s introduced lie detector tests for staff and pushed out employees seen as “disloyal.”
Despite the Drama, Border Numbers Are Down
While the show’s optics are debatable, the administration has managed to report a decrease in illegal crossings.
But critics argue that progress is being overshadowed by Noem’s TV theatrics and personal branding stunts.
What’s Next?
Will The American actually get picked up by a streaming service? Could it change the way people view citizenship—or will it backfire and be remembered as a misguided reality experiment? Either way, Kristi Noem’s next move will definitely be watched—possibly by millions.