Tiger King Tragedy: Animal Handler Killed at Preserve
The world of
Tiger King was rocked this week after Ryan Easley, a well-known animal handler and associate of Joe Exotic, was fatally mauled by a tiger at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Oklahoma on September 20th. The preserve, which has now canceled all tours and encounters, was a frequent haunt for Easley, who had acquired tigers from Joe Exotic—real name Joe Maldonado—for his own business, ShowMe Tigers.
Easley was known for his close, hands-on approach with big cats, often sharing videos of his interactions on social media. The exact circumstances of his death remain unclear, but the incident has reignited debates about the safety and ethics of private tiger ownership—a controversy that first exploded into the mainstream with Netflix’s
Tiger King docuseries.
Joe Exotic Speaks Out from Prison
Joe Exotic, the infamous star of
Tiger King, is currently serving time in federal lockup in Fort Worth, Texas for a murder-for-hire plot targeting his rival, Carole Baskin. In a recent phone interview, Joe expressed deep sorrow over Easley’s death, describing him as someone who “understood those risks not out of recklessness, but out of love” for the animals under his care.
But Joe’s own situation is equally dire. Now 62, he claims his health is rapidly deteriorating. In a June 2025 exclusive interview, Joe revealed he’s battling prostate cancer that has spread to his left lung and possibly his ribs. He described the prison medical care as “pathetic,” bluntly stating, “With the medical care I get in here, I probably won't even make it five more years”.
Personal Turmoil: Husband Deported, Pleas for Pardon
Joe’s personal life has also been thrown into chaos. In April, he married fellow inmate Jorge Flores Maldonado, hoping the union might help Jorge’s immigration status. But just a month later, Jorge was deported to Mexico by ICE. The couple has since taken to social media, pleading with former President Trump for help. Joe dreams of reuniting with Jorge in Cozumel, Mexico, saying, “I’ll work, I’ll hustle—I’ll find a way”.
Despite his notoriety, Joe Exotic’s financial situation is bleak. His net worth is estimated at
-$1 million in 2025, buried under legal fees and medical bills. He claims Netflix never paid him for
Tiger King and is still pursuing legal action for unpaid royalties and copyright infringement.
What’s Next for Joe Exotic?
Even from behind bars, Joe Exotic remains a showman, actively seeking clemency from public figures ranging from Donald Trump to Joe Rogan. He insists he’s not seeking a pardon for his crimes, just a second chance to rebuild his life and reunite with his husband.
The tragic death of Ryan Easley has once again put the spotlight on the risks and ethical dilemmas of exotic animal ownership—a world Joe Exotic helped expose, for better or worse. As Joe’s health declines and his legal battles continue, the saga of the Tiger King is far from over.
Key Takeaways
-
Ryan Easley, Tiger King associate, killed by tiger at Oklahoma preserve.
-
Joe Exotic remains in prison, battling cancer and seeking clemency.
- Joe’s husband
Jorge Flores Maldonado deported to Mexico; couple pleads for help.
- Joe’s net worth is
negative, with ongoing legal and health struggles.
- The incident reignites debate over private tiger ownership and animal safety.
Sources
1. 'Tiger King' Associate Mauled to Death — Joe Exotic Speaks Out
2. Joe Exotic Net Worth 2025: From Tiger King to Prison Claims
3. Joe Exotic - Wikipedia
