The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reviewing a pitch for a reality TV show called The American, proposed by producer Rob Worsoff, known for Duck Dynasty and The Millionaire Matchmaker.
The show would feature immigrants competing in challenges based on American traditions and culture, with the winner potentially fast-tracking to U.S. citizenship.
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DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin described the concept as a “celebration of being an American” but emphasized that the proposal is still in early vetting and has not been approved.
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The show’s format would begin at Ellis Island, with contestants traveling across the U.S. on a train named The American, hosted by a prominent naturalized citizen like Sofia Vergara or Ryan Reynolds.
Challenges could include region-specific tasks such as gold mining in San Francisco, assembling a Model T in Detroit, or civic and trivia contests.
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Eliminated contestants would receive prizes like airline miles or gift cards and continue their standard citizenship process without penalty.
Worsoff insists the show would be inclusive and heartwarming, not punitive. However, DHS clarified that Secretary Kristi Noem has not reviewed or endorsed the pitch, countering claims of her direct involvement.
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