Netflix Star Begs Trump For Pardon

Reality TV star Joe Exotic, still behind bars, says only Donald Trump can fix a broken justice system that favors elites over everyday Americans.

Joe Exotic, the former zoo owner made famous by the Netflix series Tiger King, is once again asking President Donald Trump to intervene and grant him a pardon. Serving a 22-year prison sentence for a disputed murder-for-hire conviction, Exotic says the justice system has turned its back on him—while protecting the rich, powerful, and politically connected.

Turning to Trump for Justice

Joseph Maldonado, Exotic’s legal name, has pleaded with President Trump to “listen to the voices of millions,” including supporters like Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO), who has previously pushed for his release. Exotic’s initial request for clemency was made in 2020 during Trump’s first term, and the President said at the time he would “take a look.”

Now, Exotic says he’s out of legal options after an appeal for a new trial was denied. His only hope, he claims, is a presidential pardon—this time under a second Trump administration.

Biden Ignored His Plea—But Pardoned His Own

Joe Exotic didn’t hold back in criticizing Joe Biden for ignoring his case. Earlier this year, he pointed out that while he remains behind bars, Biden issued sweeping pardons to political allies and even members of his own family.

“If I was a crack dealer, or related to the Bidens, I might have gotten out by now,” Exotic said in a January statement, highlighting what many conservatives believe is a glaring double standard in today’s justice system.

“Two-Tier Justice Is Alive and Well”

In May, Exotic spoke out again—this time after President Trump pardoned reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, who were convicted of tax evasion and fraud. While he supports their clemency, Exotic says it illustrates a deeper problem.

“This just proves what we’ve all been saying,” he wrote on Instagram. “You’re either wealthy and connected—or you’re just another American being chewed up by the system.”

Millions Watching—Will Trump Act?

Joe Exotic still has a massive following. Millions of Americans watched his story unfold, and many believe he was unfairly targeted. As President Trump takes bold steps to fix what he calls the “two-tiered justice system,” Exotic hopes his case will be next on the list.

With Biden’s Department of Justice facing increased scrutiny and public trust at all-time lows, Exotic’s plea is one more reminder of what’s at stake in 2024.