NEW YORK — Former U.S. Representative George Santos is set to enter reality television as a contestant on the fifth season of Fox’s “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test,” marking his latest public role after his expulsion from Congress, criminal conviction and brief prison term.
Fox announced Santos’ participation in the military-style reality competition, which places contestants through physically demanding challenges modeled after special forces training. The upcoming season was filmed in Malaysia and will feature participants facing tasks including survival exercises and other high-intensity tests, according to the network.
Santos confirmed his involvement in the program through a social media post promoting his appearance. “I took my fat behind off the couch and tried something new,” Santos wrote, adding that the experience changed his perspective and that he looked forward to sharing it with viewers.
The former New York congressman served less than a year in the U.S. House of Representatives after his 2022 election victory. He was expelled from Congress in December 2023 following revelations that he had fabricated significant parts of his biography and amid federal criminal charges.
Santos later pleaded guilty to federal charges related to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He was sentenced to prison before his sentence was commuted by President Donald Trump, allowing him to leave custody after serving a portion of the term.
Before joining the reality show, Santos attempted to maintain a public profile through media appearances and online activity. His post-political career has included commentary work and other public engagements, while he has continued to draw attention because of his legal history and the circumstances surrounding his departure from Congress.
“Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” features public figures competing in challenges designed to test endurance, teamwork and resilience rather than traditional entertainment competitions based on voting or performance. Other announced participants include former professional athletes and actors, according to Fox’s cast announcement.
Santos’ appearance places him among a growing number of former political figures who have moved into entertainment roles after leaving elected office. The program is scheduled to air in September 2026, with no further confirmed details released about Santos’ participation beyond his role as a contestant.
