When Netflix’s documentary series “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness” premiered in March 2020, it quickly captivated audiences with its bizarre tale of big cats, criminal activity, and larger-than-life personalities. One question that many viewers have asked is: Why does “Tiger King” get that name? The name is tied to the series’ central character, Joe Exotic, but the term “Tiger King” has taken on a life of its own, symbolizing the wild and unpredictable nature of the show. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the “Tiger King” name, its connection to the infamous Joe Exotic, and why it became such a defining element of the show and pop culture.
The”Tiger King”?
Before diving into the name itself, it’s essential to understand what “Tiger King” is. The documentary series focuses on the lives of individuals who own and operate private zoos in the United States, specifically highlighting Joe Exotic, a former zoo owner in Oklahoma. Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to a range of eccentric characters, including Carole Baskin, an animal rights activist, and Jeff Lowe, a businessman with ties to the exotic animal world.
At the center of the series is Joe Exotic, a man with a deep love for big cats (primarily tigers) and a series of questionable business practices. His zoo, the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, housed over 200 tigers and other exotic animals, but it was plagued by accusations of animal abuse, financial mismanagement, and bizarre antics. These elements combined to form a perfect storm of chaos, leading to Joe Exotic’s eventual downfall, including his conviction for murder-for-hire, all of which was captured in the series.
The Name “Tiger King” and Joe Exotic
So, why is Joe Exotic referred to as “Tiger King”? The name is rooted in his obsession with tigers and his self-proclaimed status as the king of the exotic animal world. Joe Exotic, born Joseph Allen Maldonado-Passage, started his career in the world of exotic animals in the 1990s. He later gained national attention for his flamboyant personality, his collection of tigers, and his self-made branding.
In interviews and promotional materials, Joe Exotic frequently referred to himself as “The Tiger King.” He positioned himself as a larger-than-life figure who was the ultimate authority when it came to tigers. His marketing campaign included colorful advertisements, exotic outfits, and bold claims about his expertise and the size of his tiger collection. In essence, Joe Exotic wanted to be known as the “king” of the tiger world, and he made sure the world knew it by associating himself with the term.
However, it wasn’t just Joe Exotic’s love for tigers that led to the name—it was also his outrageous behavior. From his eccentric fashion choices to his viral music videos, Exotic fully embraced the role of a wild, larger-than-life figure. The “Tiger King” name became synonymous with his personality and the chaos surrounding his private zoo.
The Popularization of the Name
While Joe Exotic may have coined the term “Tiger King” for himself, it was Netflix’s documentary series that truly popularized the name and cemented its place in popular culture. The series captured every bizarre detail of Exotic’s life and career, from his bitter feud with Carole Baskin to his bizarre political campaign for governor of Oklahoma. His larger-than-life antics made him a polarizing figure, but also one that captured the public’s imagination.
The name “Tiger King” became a viral sensation almost immediately after the series was released. Fans of the show began using the name to describe Joe Exotic and the chaotic world he inhabited. Social media exploded with memes, hashtags, and references to the “Tiger King,” turning the name into a pop culture phenomenon. People weren’t just talking about the documentary—they were talking about the character Joe Exotic had become, and the name “Tiger King” was an essential part of that.
Why Does “Tiger King” Stick?
So, what makes the name “Tiger King” so memorable? Several factors contribute to its lasting impact.
- Joe Exotic’s Outlandish Personality: The name “Tiger King” perfectly reflects Joe Exotic’s outlandish and larger-than-life personality. From his extravagant wardrobe to his over-the-top behavior, Exotic was the epitome of flamboyance. The name matched his wild demeanor and unique approach to life, making it an unforgettable moniker.
- The Infamy of the Story: The events surrounding Joe Exotic’s rise and fall are so bizarre and outrageous that they seem tailor-made for a sensational title like “Tiger King.” The name captures the absurdity of a man who built his brand around tigers, but whose life was filled with criminal activity, controversy, and scandal.
- The Fascination with Exotic Animals: Tigers, along with other exotic animals, are fascinating creatures that evoke a sense of awe and wonder. Joe Exotic’s obsession with these animals, particularly tigers, and his role as the “king” of his zoo made the name both fitting and memorable. The term “Tiger King” evokes the wild and untamed nature of both the animals and the man who surrounded himself with them.
- The Viral Nature of the Series: The name “Tiger King” spread like wildfire thanks to the documentary’s viral success. As millions of viewers tuned in to watch the series, the term became synonymous with the absurdity and drama of Joe Exotic’s world. It quickly became a part of internet culture, referenced in memes, discussions, and pop culture moments.
The Legacy of “Tiger King”
The cultural impact of “Tiger King” cannot be overstated. The name has become a shorthand for the eccentricities and controversies that defined the series. It represents more than just a man with a tiger obsession—it symbolizes a larger-than-life character who captivated the world with his bizarre antics.
The legacy of the “Tiger King” name is still being felt today. Joe Exotic has become a symbol of the strange and chaotic world of exotic animal ownership, and his story continues to intrigue audiences. Despite his conviction and time in prison, Joe Exotic remains a figure of fascination, and the name “Tiger King” continues to be associated with his brand of madness.
Conclusion
The name “Tiger King” has become one of the most recognizable phrases in recent pop culture, thanks to the popularity of the Netflix documentary series. It originates from Joe Exotic’s self-proclaimed title as the “king” of the exotic animal world, but it also captures the wild, unpredictable, and often absurd nature of his life. The name perfectly encapsulates the chaos surrounding Joe Exotic and his infamous zoo, making it a fitting and lasting symbol of his legacy.
In the end, the question of why “Tiger King” gets that name is straightforward: it’s a name that reflects Joe Exotic’s obsession with tigers, his larger-than-life persona, and the bizarre, unforgettable world he created. Whether you view it as a symbol of madness or a testament to his ambition, the name “Tiger King” will continue to hold a place in the annals of pop culture for years to come.
