Hold onto your sombreros, because this Halloween just got a whole lot more controversial! An Alabama sheriff, already infamous for his divisive immigration-themed Halloween display, is now stepping into the spotlight as Mini-Me in a parody film titled Austin Powers: ICE ICE Baby. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this isn’t just a quirky costume choice—it’s a full-blown production shot in his own front yard, directed by none other than his wife. Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch, known for his yard decorations featuring ICE agents chasing sombrero-clad skeletons, is doubling down on his controversial persona by embodying the iconic villainous sidekick.
In an exclusive on-set interview, Burch declared, ‘I’m a huge Mini-Me fan,’ between sips of unsweetened ICE Tea. He didn’t hold back his opinions, either, quipping that Mike Myers ‘gets too much credit’ for the Austin Powers franchise and that Dr. Evil and Mini-Me were the ‘real stars.’ Bold words, but is this just playful satire or a deeper commentary on immigration enforcement? And this is the part most people miss: Burch’s role isn’t just about laughs—it’s a mirror to Alabama’s growing trend of local law enforcement aiding ICE in Trump-era crackdowns, a move that’s sparked fierce debates across the state.
‘My wife handles all the yard decorating and production,’ Burch explained, ‘so I can focus on my craft.’ But what exactly is that craft? Is it entertainment, or is it making a statement about the blurred lines between local policing and federal immigration policy? Here’s the controversial question: Does Burch’s portrayal of Mini-Me as an ICE agent trivialize serious immigration issues, or is it a clever critique of overreach in law enforcement?
As the film gears up for its Halloween release, one thing’s for sure: this sheriff isn’t just playing a character—he’s inviting a conversation. What do you think? Is Burch’s parody a harmless laugh or a problematic punchline? Let us know in the comments below. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out JD Crowe’s award-winning cartoons for more thought-provoking satire. Follow him on social media or sign up for his newsletter, Crowe Jam, to stay in the loop. Just remember: in this Halloween tale, the line between humor and controversy is as thin as a skeleton’s sombrero.
