Margaret Cho reveals why fear of ICE and the Trump administration led her to decline a role in the Canadian series Heated Rivalry.
- May 14, 2026
AceShowbiz - Margaret Cho recently disclosed why she turned down a part in the acclaimed Canadian TV series Heated Rivalry. The celebrated comedian and bisexual icon revealed that concerns about the U.S. political climate and immigration enforcement influenced her decision.
Speaking on the I Never Liked You podcast, Cho explained that although she was excited about the pilot script, the show’s filming location in Canada posed a major obstacle. She expressed a deep apprehension about crossing the U.S. border due to her outspoken criticism of the Trump administration and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Cho said, "I was so scared because I'm so vocal about hating ICE and hating this administration. I was like, I will get detained at the border and I will be put in ICE detention if I go." This fear of possible detainment or complications at the border ultimately led her to decline the role despite her enthusiasm for the project.
The revelation adds another layer to the ongoing conversations about how political and immigration issues are affecting artists and performers, especially those who are vocal about their beliefs. Heated Rivalry has already captivated LGBTQ audiences, and Cho nearly became part of that success story before her concerns took precedence.
This news also highlights how external factors, such as travel restrictions and the political environment, continue to influence casting choices and the careers of many in the entertainment industry.