Episode Details

This episode details the life of Joseph Allen Maldonado, better known as Joe Exotic, a former Oklahoma zookeeper who rose to international fame through the Netflix series Tiger King. The text traces his history from his early years and law enforcement background to his tenure as the eccentric owner of the G.W. Zoo, where he was often criticized for animal welfare violations. A significant portion of the record focuses on his intense, long-standing legal feud with Carole Baskin, which eventually culminated in his conviction for a murder-for-hire plot. Beyond his criminal history, the source explores his unconventional political ambitions, including multiple runs for the U.S. presidency and the Oklahoma governorship. Furthermore, it documents his personal relationships, health struggles with cancer, and his continued media presence while serving a 21-year federal prison sentence.