Joe Exotic gets married in prison, introducing his new husband.
Joe Exotic, the controversial figure known as the “Tiger King,” has officially tied the knot for the third time while serving his prison sentence. On April 22, 2025, the 62-year-old, whose legal name is Joseph Allen Maldonado, made the announcement via social media, revealing that he married Jorge Flores Maldonado, a fellow inmate at FMC Fort Worth.
In his announcement, Exotic expressed pride in his new husband, providing a glimpse into their wedding through a seemingly edited photograph showcasing the couple dressed in black tuxedos and white baseball caps beneath a floral arch. This marriage follows Exotic’s prior relationship history, which includes multiple marriages, having been married at least twice before, with some reports suggesting he has had as many as five husbands, including two during overlapping periods.
Joe Exotic is currently serving a 21-year prison sentence after being resentenced in early 2022 on various charges, including animal cruelty and attempting to hire individuals to assassinate animal rights activist Carole Baskin. Despite his incarceration, he continues to garner media attention, particularly for his personal life and ongoing legal challenges.
Exotic announced his engagement to Flores in October 2024, describing his fiancé as a 33-year-old from Mexico. In light of their recent marriage, Exotic has indicated plans to seek asylum for his new spouse, who is serving time for entering the United States illegally. Should their asylum request be unsuccessful, the couple has expressed intentions to escape the U.S. upon their release.
Exotic expects to be eligible for release in 2026, which has spurred interest in his post-incarceration plans. His unique narrative as a former polygamist who has navigated a tumultuous life behind bars continues to capture the public’s fascination.
The intertwining of Exotic’s legal issues and romantic pursuits highlights a narrative that has intrigued audiences since the release of the Netflix documentary series “Tiger King.” As the unconventional love story unfolds, the attention surrounding Joe Exotic’s life remains steadfast, raising questions about both his future and the broader implications of his actions.
This latest chapter not only marks a significant personal milestone for Exotic but continues to cement his status as a polarizing figure in popular culture.