When Tiger King first aired on Netflix last year, Joe Exotic provided an unexpected (but not unwelcome) diversion from our daily descent into socially-distanced despair. When we were settling in for another day in the same old sweatpants, his wild style brought some much-needed escapism, from the peroxide blonde-mullet to the sequinned shirts.
Now, Exotic is offering a chance to get your hands on some actual pieces from his wardrobe, via an auction run from jail, where he’s serving 22 years for animal abuse and hiring a hitman to murder his nemesis, Carole Baskin.
Among the garments on offer in the sale are Exotic’s fringed leather “cowboy jacket”, a black leather jacket and pants combo, and his holster (along with the “non-functioning” Smith and Wesson revolver that it holds, which is currently going for more than $100,000). Elsewhere, there’s the blue bikini worn by the adult film star, and friend of the GW Zoo, Rachel Starr, in a photo with Exotic and one of his big cats.
Each lot is also accompanied by a digital 3D rendering, sold as an NFT (naturally) in partnership with the cryptocurrency members club More. Speaking about jumping on the NFT craze in a statement, Exotic says: “It’s great to have a voice via blockchain technology and I’m honored to be the first to kickoff More’s celebrity NFTs.”
“I hope whoever purchases my favourite belongings is able to give them a well-deserved home,” he adds. “Being able to auction off collectibles makes me feel connected with the outside world, especially without my cats by my side. Whether you love me or hate me for what you think I’ve done, there’s no doubt that everyone wants a piece of the Tiger King!”
Additional NFTs in the auction include digital images — one depicts him embracing the Doge Coin mascot — along with recorded messages, and one of his original songs, “I Saw A Tiger”.
In more Tiger King news, the upcoming TV drama adaptation recently revealed more casting details. Kate McKinnon, as Carole Baskin, is set to be joined by Sam Keeley, Nat Wolff, Brian Van Holt, and Dennis Quaid. John Cameron Mitchell is set to portray Exotic, though the former zoo keeper has seemingly distanced himself from the show.
