Carole Baskin: Latest News & Updates On The "Tiger King" Star

Dr. Darius Johnson PhD 20 May 2025

Is Carole Baskin, the enigmatic figure from "Tiger King," more than just a reality TV personality, or is her life a carefully constructed facade?

Carole Baskin has become a household name, but the reality of her life and actions continue to be debated and scrutinized, especially in legal proceedings.

The story of Carole Baskin is a complex tapestry woven with threads of animal advocacy, accusations of foul play, and the glare of relentless media attention. She is, at her core, the founder and CEO of Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and providing homes for big cats, as well as a real estate business. Her life, however, is far more intricate than a simple title.

Category	Details
Full Name	Carole Ann Baskin (ne Stairs)
Date of Birth	June 6, 1960 (Age 64)
Known For	Founder and CEO of Big Cat Rescue, "Tiger King"
Career	Animal rights activist, Real Estate business owner
Residence	Tampa, Florida
Current Legal Involvement	Ongoing defamation lawsuits and court appearances
Key Projects	Big Cat Rescue sanctuary
Controversies	Disappearance of Don Lewis, accusations of animal abuse, land sales
Husband	Howard Baskin
Reference	Big Cat Rescue Official Website

Carole Baskin's life was irrevocably altered by the Netflix docuseries "Tiger King." It transformed her into a pop culture sensation, albeit one often viewed through a lens of controversy. Her appearance on the show, alongside the infamous Joe Exotic, brought her, and her sanctuary, global notoriety. The docuseries delved into the world of big cat ownership, and the clash between Baskin's animal rights advocacy and the often-unethical practices of private zoo owners, which captured the attention of millions worldwide.

The attention hasn't been without its legal battles. Baskin frequently finds herself back in court. The Netflix star has sought the Florida Supreme Court's review of an appellate court's ruling. A former assistant is suing her for defamation.

In a twist of fate, her nemesis, Joe Exotic, is currently incarcerated in a federal prison in Florida, convicted on two counts of hiring someone to kill her. This reality further cemented Baskin's place in the public consciousness, her life seemingly mirroring the drama of the very docuseries that made her famous.

Baskin's involvement in real estate is also worthy of note. Up until January 1, 2024, she managed a team of over 100 volunteers and interns from around the world, as well as a staff of 10 contractors, showcasing her ability to run large-scale operations. She has continued to pursue her advocacy work.

The disappearance of her former husband, Don Lewis, remains a dark cloud that hangs over Baskin's life. Though she has consistently denied any role in his 1997 disappearance, the case has been reopened by the police. The lingering questions surrounding Lewis's vanishing have kept her in the public eye, fueling the ongoing scrutiny of her actions and character. The Lewis daughters have provided statements to authorities that conflict with Baskin's narrative, further complicating the narrative.

Beyond the courtroom and the drama, Baskin is also involved in local issues. She joined Channel 2 for an exclusive conversation about the push for a new ballot measure in Colorado. This interview, as well as the various press releases of April 23, 2024, at 07:23 am MDT, provide insight into her ongoing efforts to influence legislation and raise awareness about animal rights.

The sale of Big Cat Rescue's land in December 2024 has also brought about significant change for the sanctuary. The sale of 56 of the 67 acres has led to the construction of approximately 280 townhomes, a move that impacts the physical landscape of her sanctuary. The remaining 11 acres will continue to house the remaining big cats.

The recent purchase of a home by Carole Baskin, using funds from her Big Cat Rescue organization, has raised eyebrows and fueled further debate. The fact that the home, located in Odessa, Florida, was purchased for $895,000, has generated critical commentary and scrutiny regarding the handling of the charity's finances.

Defamation lawsuits persist against Baskin, including one brought by her husbands former assistant, Anne McQueen, which the Florida Supreme Court is reviewing. McQueen alleges that Baskin defamed her through public statements. This legal challenge adds another layer of complexity to Baskin's public persona and the legal environment within which she operates.

The world of "Tiger King" extends beyond just the principal characters. Maldonado's sentencing to 22 years, after being convicted of trying to hire hitmen to kill Carole Baskin in January 2020, two months before the documentary's release, is a testament to the high stakes and the intensity of the relationships involved.

Baskin's story is constantly evolving, and it continues to draw attention. Her net worth, like the circumstances surrounding her husband's disappearance, has sparked interest and speculation, and the publics curiosity doesn't appear to be waning.

The Department of Homeland Security has offered no comment regarding Baskins claim that her husband, Don Lewis, who went missing in 1997, is still alive. This silence adds another layer of intrigue to the story. Baskin has the opportunity to speak with the public, sharing her wisdom and her story. Her life as "Mother Theresa of cats" continues to draw attention, she is still working toward saving captive big cats.