62-year-old TV personality Joe Exotic pens down ’emotional’ goodbye to deported 33-year-old husband Jorge Marquez Flores

Joe Exotic and his husband, Jorge Marquez Flores, have spoken publicly for the first time following Jorge’s deportation from the United States, confirming that their separation was marked by a deeply emotional farewell. The couple told TMZ that they had anticipated the moment would come and tried to make the most of every day together before being forced apart.

Jorge, speaking from a friend’s home in Mexico, reflected on their final weeks together, describing simple but meaningful routines such as visits to the library and gym. He said the pair often studied English and Spanish together, deepening their bond through shared learning. Jorge added that although they have not spoken since his departure from the Federal Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, he has already written several letters to Joe and is hopeful they will reach him.

Joe Exotic, the former zoo operator made famous by the “Tiger King” documentary series, is currently serving a 21-year prison sentence for a murder-for-hire plot targeting animal rights activist Carole Baskin. In a statement to TMZ, he revealed that his cancer has returned and spread to his left lung. However, he said he is refusing further treatment, choosing instead to focus on his hope of being released from prison and reunited with Jorge.

Joe explained that he is prepared to face the consequences of his illness, expressing a desire to be reunited in the afterlife with his two late husbands, Travis Maldonado and Brian Rhyne, as well as his brother. He said he would rather take that path than endure more chemotherapy or radiation.

Despite repeated attempts to secure a pardon from former President Donald Trump, Joe’s legal efforts have so far failed. He maintains that testimony used against him in his trial was influenced by pressure from federal authorities and continues to seek justice through appeals and public advocacy.

Still, at 62, Joe said he has found solace in his relationship with Jorge, who is 33. He described their time together as the happiest period of his life, saying, “If I die tomorrow, I’ve had the happiest 10 months of my life.”