Joe Exotic's Shocking Prison Wedding: The 'Tiger King' Finds Love Behind Bars
April 2025
Joe Exotic, the controversial star of Netflix’s Tiger King, is making headlines once again—this time for marrying fellow inmate Jorge Flores Maldonado while serving a 21-year sentence.
A Love Story Born in Prison
Joseph Maldonado-Passage, widely known as Joe Exotic, met Jorge Flores Maldonado at the Federal Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas. Jorge had been transferred from the South Texas ICE Processing Center after entering the U.S. illegally. The two quickly formed a deep bond that led to their recent marriage.
On social media, Joe proudly introduced his new husband to the world, writing: “Never been more proud of someone. Meet my husband Jorge Flores Maldonado.”
Overcoming Barriers Behind Bars
Same-sex marriages in prison are often complicated, and Joe expressed concerns about getting their paperwork approved. “Heterosexuals get married in here all day long,” he told Fox News Digital. “But I’m hoping they respect our constitutional right.”
Despite the challenges, the marriage was approved, marking a turning point in Joe’s turbulent life behind bars.
Who Is Jorge Flores Maldonado?
Jorge, a 33-year-old man from Mexico, has remained mostly out of the spotlight. Joe described him as “amazing” and expressed hope for a future together—either through gaining asylum or relocating outside the U.S. once freed.
“We’ve spent every minute together since we met,” Joe shared. “It just clicked so fast and so sincerely.”
Joe Exotic’s Criminal Background
Joe Exotic is serving a 21-year sentence for multiple federal crimes, including a murder-for-hire plot against animal rights activist Carole Baskin, as well as violations of the Endangered Species Act for killing five tigers and falsifying records.
He gained international fame after Netflix released Tiger King, a docuseries centered around his life as the owner of the now-closed Garold Wayne Exotic Animal Memorial Park in Oklahoma.
What the Future Holds
Though their future remains uncertain, Joe and Jorge appear determined to build a life together. Joe hinted that if Jorge is denied asylum, they may start a new chapter outside of the U.S. upon release.
“God had a plan,” Joe said. “I wish I had met Jorge years ago.”