Tom Hanks Faces Backlash After Insulting 77Milion People Over Controversial SNL Sketch
Tom Hanks’ unexpected appearance on SNL 50 sparked major controversy, leading to a wave of social media backlash.
The Hollywood star, who has a long history with Saturday Night Live, recently reflected on his experiences in the Peacock docuseries SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, calling hosting the show “the single most exciting thing” in his career. Hanks, who first hosted in 1985, has since returned ten times and became a member of the Five-Timers Club in 1990.
However, his latest performance didn’t sit well with many, particularly Trump supporters. During the SNL 50 special, Hanks reprised his role as Doug, a MAGA supporter from the infamous Black Jeopardy sketch, wearing a red MAGA hat and hesitating when offered a handshake by Kenan Thompson’s game show host.
The skit reignited political tensions, with critics arguing it insulted and stereotyped 77 million Americans. Political commentator Link Lauren slammed the sketch as “disgusting,” while The View co-host Joy Behar acknowledged the frustration, saying the portrayal made “anyone who voted for Trump look like a racist.”
Others, including former SNL cast member Victoria Jackson, expressed disappointment in Hanks’ participation, while some social media users pointed out that the handshake gag had already been done in his original 2016 skit, making this new attempt feel forced.
While SNL aimed to celebrate its 50-year legacy, Hanks’ portrayal seemed to further divide audiences, with many arguing that the sketch leaned on outdated stereotypes rather than fresh comedic material.
