The two-time Oscar winner reprised his role as "Doug," a character known for his MAGA hat and simplistic demeanor, in the recurring "Black Jeopardy" sketch. The comedy bit, which first aired in 2016, features Hanks' character alongside black contestants, highlighting unexpected similarities between them.
According to The New York Post, the sketch drew ire from Trump supporters who criticized it as a "tired" and "disgusting" stereotype. During the segment, Doug hesitates to shake hands with the host, Darnell Hayes, played by Kenan Thompson, before eventually relenting. Doug's quip about starting a "White Jeopardy" further fueled the controversy.
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Former Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aide Link Lauren expressed disdain on social media, stating, "This show wonders why their ratings are in the gutter," and denouncing the portrayal of MAGA supporters as racist. Conservative commentator Benny Johnson echoed these sentiments, accusing the show's writers of failing to learn from past criticisms. He remarked, "SNL decided it was a good idea to depict Tom Hanks as a 'Racist Trump Supporter' in a MAGA Hat afraid to shake a black man’s hand."
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The special, which spanned three and a half hours, included numerous jabs at the current administration and its policies. During the opening monologue, Steve Martin, an "SNL" alum, made a satirical reference to President Trump's controversial decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America."
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Martin Short, another Canadian comic, joined Martin on stage, leading to a comedic exchange about immigration status. Martin's jest, "Do you have your passport on you? ICE, get him!" was followed by actors in ICE uniforms humorously escorting Short off the stage, prompting Short to name fellow Canadians in jest.
The portrayal of conservative figures and policies in such a manner has sparked debate over the role of satire in political discourse. Critics argue that these portrayals perpetuate divisive stereotypes, while supporters claim they highlight societal issues. As the nation grapples with these cultural tensions, the impact of such comedic sketches on public perception remains a topic of discussion.
