Where Is Joe Exotic Now? What to Know About the “Tiger King” Star’s Life in Prison

Joe Exotic’s Current Whereabouts: An Update on His Life Behind Bars

In a surprising turn of events, Joe Exotic, famously known from the Netflix series Tiger King, has made headlines once again. While the world became captivated by his larger-than-life persona and exotic animal park, Joe Exotic, whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage, has now added a new title to his name – husband. In April 2025, Maldonado-Passage publicly announced his marriage to fellow inmate Jorge Marquez, igniting a wave of curiosity among his fans.

Having shot to fame with his over-the-top antics and feuds in Tiger King, Joe Exotic’s life took a drastic turn when he was convicted in 2019 for a murder-for-hire plot against his rival Carole Baskin. Sentenced to 22 years in prison, he has since been resentenced to 21 years. Despite his notoriety, Joe Exotic has expressed regret over the impact of the series on his life, stating that it has been a challenging journey over the past few years.

A multifaceted individual, Joe Exotic is not just an exotic animal park owner but also an aspiring country music singer who ran for U.S. president in 2016 and governor of Oklahoma in 2018. However, his turbulent legal battles have overshadowed his public persona. Convicted of murder-for-hire and violating wildlife laws, Joe Exotic’s life has taken unexpected twists and turns since the airing of Tiger King, leaving fans and critics alike in disbelief.

Since his stint in prison, Joe Exotic has faced various health issues, including a battle with prostate cancer. Despite his plea for leniency and medical care, his sentence was only marginally reduced. Additionally, he has encountered legal challenges post-Tiger King, including lawsuits and failed appeals. Amidst these tumultuous times, Joe Exotic has also faced personal struggles, with multiple marriages and relationships making headlines and raising eyebrows.

The fate of Joe Exotic’s beloved animals has been another point of contention. The 39 tigers and three black bears under his care have been relocated to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, offering them a chance at a better life. The closure of his zoo underlines the repercussions of his legal troubles, with Jeff Lowe taking over ownership before eventual closure due to license issues.

Currently incarcerated at the Federal Medical Center Fort Worth, Joe Exotic remains hopeful for a presidential pardon. His marriage to Jorge Marquez has sparked renewed interest in his story, with fans eagerly following his journey behind bars. As he navigates the complexities of prison life and legal battles, Joe Exotic’s saga continues to intrigue and fascinate audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, the enigmatic life of Joe Exotic serves as a cautionary tale of fame, ambition, and the pitfalls of the entertainment industry. His resilience in the face of adversity and unwavering spirit amidst challenges make him a figure worth watching. As the world awaits his next chapter, one thing remains certain – Joe Exotic’s story is far from over.