Ali G film subject claims he recognised Cohen but kept up act
A man featured in the new Ali G movie says he was aware of the deception but the filmmakers did not know he was in on it.
At a glance
- Loudermilk claims he recognised Cohen early in filming but continued the act anyway
- The filmmakers were reportedly unaware he knew about the deception
- He maintained a portrayal as a hard-right border defence advocate throughout
- Loudermilk is one of two men apparently discredited in the new Ali G film
Joshua Loudermilk, one of two men who appear to be discredited in the film Ali G: Who Iz I?, has told the Guardian that he recognised star Sacha Baron Cohen early during filming. Despite this awareness, Loudermilk continued to play along with the premise, maintaining his portrayal of a hard-right sympathiser willing to defend the US border.
Loudermilk, a 54-year-old aspiring actor from North Carolina, said the filmmakers were unaware of his knowledge. He indicated his suspicions were raised during filming by a prop gun shaped like a wearable plastic object.
Why it matters
The film Ali G: Who Iz I? uses hidden-camera comedy to satirise political figures and movements. Loudermilk's account raises questions about the authenticity of the interactions depicted.
Original reporting
This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above and checked against our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Request a correction.
