Anna Delvey on Competing in Dancing With the Stars Despite ICE Restrictions

Anna Delvey, the infamous fake heiress and subject of Netflix’s “Inventing Anna,” is set to compete on “Dancing with the Stars” while under house arrest, complete with an ankle monitor. Convicted of larceny for allegedly scamming thousands of dollars from New York’s elite to fund her extravagant lifestyle, Delvey’s participation in the show has captivated many.

In an interview with Access Hollywood shortly after the Season 33 lineup was announced, Delvey revealed she received “special permission” from ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to travel to Los Angeles for the filming. “I had to wait for a while to get the permissions from the authorities,” Delvey shared. “Thank you United States government to allow me to travel out of state. And that was the hardest part. I just got released of house arrest the first week of August. So, this is the first big thing I’m doing.”

When asked why ICE permitted her to compete, Delvey responded, “That’s a question for them.”

The “Inventing Anna” subject—convicted of larceny after allegedly posing as a German heiress and swindling thousands from New York’s wealthy—has been paired with new pro dancer Ezra Sosa for season 33 of the popular ABC dance competition.

In addition to her casting announcement, “DWTS” teased the debut of her infamous ankle bracelet, prominently featured in promotional photos ahead of the September 17 premiere.

This isn’t Delvey’s first reality TV appearance since her 2022 release from prison. She recently appeared in a promo for USA Network’s competition series “The Anonymous.”

“I might know a thing or two about deception,” she quipped in the teaser, showcasing her court-ordered ankle monitor while seated in her home. “Never be afraid to dress up your look—or the truth. Trust me, I’d never lie to you.” In another promo, the convicted fraudster advised contestants that “gaslighting can be a great way to get ahead,” before joking, “Not that I’ve ever done it. Is it emotionally manipulative? Of course!”

Delvey was first arrested on larceny charges in 2017, sentenced to four to 12 years in prison, including time spent behind bars before her trial. Convicted in 2019, she was initially released on parole in 2021, only to be detained by ICE the same year amid possible deportation proceedings. She spent an additional year behind bars before being released on house arrest.