Tom Hanks has come under significant criticism from supporters of former President Donald Trump following his portrayal of a MAGA supporter in a sketch during “Saturday Night Live’s” 50th anniversary special. The actor reprised his role as Doug, a character he originally played in 2016, during a “Black Jeopardy” segment. In the sketch, Doug, wearing a red MAGA hat, hesitates to shake hands with the Black host, Darnell Hayes, played by Kenan Thompson, and later suggests creating a “White Jeopardy” show. Mardinolay+2EW.com+2GB News+2The Blast+7GB News+7Mardinolay+7Washington Examiner+6The Times of India+6GB News+6
The sketch sparked immediate backlash from conservative commentators and Trump supporters, who accused Hanks and SNL of perpetuating outdated and offensive stereotypes. Benny Johnson, a right-wing commentator, criticized the portrayal, stating, “Donald Trump just won a landslide election and has never been more popular with Americans. They have learned nothing.” Similarly, former Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aide Link Lauren labeled the sketch as “disgusting,” arguing that it depicted Trump supporters as racist caricatures. EW.com+2Mardinolay+2GB News+2Mardinolay+5News+5Daily Express US+5The Independent+9GB News+9Mardinolay+9
Media personality Megyn Kelly also weighed in, expressing disappointment in Hanks’ participation. She remarked, “It was shocking to see somebody who tries so carefully not to be too divisive in his choices to come right out and suggest he thinks Trump supporters are racists.” NewsMegyn Kelly
The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between Hollywood portrayals and political sensitivities, especially concerning depictions of Trump supporters. While satire has long been a staple of SNL’s content, this particular sketch has reignited debates about the boundaries of comedic expression and the potential for reinforcing divisive stereotypes
