Joshua Loudermilk, a 54-year-old aspiring actor from North Carolina, has stated that he identified star Sacha Baron Cohen during the production of the new Ali G film Ali G: Who Iz I? but maintained his cover throughout the shoot. Rather than feeling deceived, Loudermilk expressed enthusiasm about his participation and said he hopes the experience will advance his acting career.
Loudermilk responded to a Craigslist advertisement posted in September 2025 by an organization called the American Citizen Initiative, which recruited participants for what was described as an exclusive border-related educational event. Motivated primarily by financial need following a recent job loss, Loudermilk fabricated conservative political views in his application while omitting his theatrical ambitions. He progressed through a video interview phase and was subsequently flown to Ontario, California, receiving $1,700 in compensation plus expenses.
During the production at a karate studio location, Loudermilk became suspicious of Cohen’s true identity while observing what he described as obvious physical features and peculiar production choices. His suspicions solidified when the character Col Erran Morad unveiled a weapon with comedic design elements and used Yiddish terminology. According to Loudermilk’s account, he recognized these as unmistakable indicators of Cohen’s involvement but chose not to break character.
Loudermilk’s account contrasts with statements from fellow participant Michael Aboud, the chair of the El Paso county Republican party, who has characterized Cohen negatively and indicated legal action. The film emphasizes both men were unaware of the deception. Loudermilk stated he posted social media updates shortly after filming that explicitly named Cohen and expressed his excitement about the project, which he suggests the production company overlooked. He indicated he views the situation positively and hopes to leverage the publicity to pursue comedy acting.
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