Theo Von blasts DHS for using his clip in deportation video without permission

Podcaster and comedian Theo Von criticized the Department of Homeland Security after the agency posted a 31-second video on X that used a clip of him saying, “Heard you got deported dude, bye.” The post has since disappeared from DHS’ account.

Von objected to the use, writing on X that he hadn’t authorized it: “Yooo DHS i didnt approve to be used in this. I know you know my address so send a check.” He also urged the agency to remove the clip and avoid using him in future “banger” deportation videos, adding that his views on immigration are “a lot more nuanced than this video allows.”

It wasn’t immediately clear whether DHS deleted the post or if the platform removed it. Requests for comment have been sent to DHS and X.

Von, an American stand-up comic and right-leaning podcaster with more than 4 million YouTube subscribers, has cultivated a large young male audience. He has been aligned with former President Donald Trump, including receiving VIP seating at an inauguration, and hosted Trump on his podcast, “This Past Weekend,” during the 2024 campaign. Still, Von has recently voiced increasing frustration with Trump’s second stint in the White House.

The flap follows another DHS post this week that included Pokémon imagery without permission. The Pokémon Company International said it was “aware of a recent video posted by the Department of Homeland Security that includes imagery and language associated with our brand,” noting it neither created nor authorized the content. A DHS spokesperson responded with a reference to the Pokémon theme song and did not address the company’s complaint.