Tom Hanks found himself at the center of controversy following his appearance on Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special. The actor’s sketch, in which he played a character wearing a MAGA hat, has drawn sharp criticism from supporters of former President Donald Trump.
The special, which featured a host of celebrities like Meryl Streep, Martin Short, and Aubrey Plaza, celebrated SNL’s milestone with a mix of nostalgia and new material. Hanks, a frequent host of the show, appeared in a parody of Black Jeopardy, portraying a character named Doug who sports a red “Make America Great Again” hat.
In the sketch, Doug’s interactions with the show’s host, played by Kenan Thompson, were meant to highlight cultural and political divides. At one point, Doug hesitates to shake Thompson’s hand, leading to a humorous exchange. The scene, while intended to be lighthearted, struck a nerve with many Trump supporters.
Social media quickly became a battleground, with critics accusing the sketch of stereotyping MAGA supporters. One user tweeted, “Tom Hanks just mocked Trump voters as racist and ignorant. This is why the left keeps losing.” Another commented, “SNL is out of touch and only appeals to liberal elites.”
Despite the backlash, the sketch was a reminder of SNL’s long history of political satire. The show has never shied away from poking fun at politicians and movements from both sides of the aisle. Hanks, known for his versatility and charm, has often been a highlight of the show, but this time, his performance has divided audiences.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Saturday Night Live remains a cultural touchstone, capable of sparking conversations and controversy in equal measure.
