Ep 8. The Tiger King and I

In the final episode of the first season of Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, titled The Tiger King and I, Joel McHale sits down with various cast members and experts featured in the show for an aftershow-style discussion.

McHale talks to John Reinke, Saff, Joshua Dial, Barbara Fisher, and Rick Kirkham about their experiences working with or for Joe Exotic, their thoughts on the outcome of the legal battles, and their views on the big cat industry as a whole.

The discussion begins with McHale asking the cast members about their initial impressions of Joe, and it quickly becomes evident that everyone has a different take on the man at the center of the documentary. Some saw him as a kind and generous boss, while others were wary of his erratic behavior.

Next, McHale asks the group about their thoughts on the outcome of the legal battle between Joe and Carole Baskin, and whether they believe justice was served. The cast members have mixed opinions, with some feeling that Joe got what he deserved for his treatment of animals and others thinking that he was unfairly targeted.

Throughout the discussion, McHale also touches on some of the larger ethical questions raised by the show, such as whether big cats should be kept in captivity and whether exotic animal ownership should be legal.

The cast members provide a range of perspectives on these issues, with some arguing that it's possible to run a reputable and humane big cat sanctuary, while others believe that the industry itself is fundamentally unethical.

The discussion ends on a more personal note, as McHale asks each cast member what they hope viewers take away from the show. Their answers are heartfelt and revealing, offering a glimpse into the impact that their experiences with Joe and other big cat owners have had on their lives.

Overall, The Tiger King and I provides a chance to hear from the people who were closest to the events of Tiger King, and offers a more nuanced look at the complicated world of big cat ownership.