Tom Hanks has once again stirred the pot of public opinion by reprising his controversial “Black Jeopardy” character, Doug, during Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special. Originally introduced in 2016, Doug is a clueless, MAGA hat-wearing Trump supporter, designed to explore the surprising intersections between Trump voters and Black culture. However, this revival has not been met with the same enthusiasm as before; instead, it has sparked outrage among many Trump supporters who felt the sketch perpetuated outdated and divisive stereotypes, especially given Trump’s recent electoral gains among diverse voter groups.
The sketch took a particularly contentious turn when Hanks’ character refused to shake hands with host Darnell Hayes, portrayed by Kenan Thompson. This moment was perceived by critics as a blatant affront to Trump supporters, igniting a firestorm of backlash on social media. Many felt that the portrayal was not only unfair but also indicative of SNL’s failure to evolve with the changing political landscape. Former RFK Jr. aide Link Lauren slammed the segment as “disgusting,” questioning why the show continues to rely on such tired tropes that paint MAGA supporters as inherently racist. His comments echoed across various platforms, with viewers expressing their discontent and disappointment over the sketch’s implications.
Right-wing influencers and Trump supporters were quick to voice their frustrations, with some accusing Hanks of disrespecting millions of Republicans. One user lamented that the portrayal was not only unfunny but also insulting, while another noted the audience’s silence during the sketch, suggesting that even live viewers were unimpressed. Critics pointed out that SNL’s reliance on these stereotypes might be contributing to its declining ratings, with one pro-Trump account arguing that the show was out of touch with half the country. The backlash reflects a broader concern about how political satire is received in an increasingly polarized environment.
Despite the criticism, there were also viewers who found humor in Hanks’ portrayal, reveling in the outrage it generated among MAGA supporters. SNL’s anniversary special featured a star-studded lineup, including Cher, Bad Bunny, and Eddie Murphy, and continued to deliver jabs at Trump throughout the night. As the debate rages on, Hanks’ return to the role of Doug has reignited discussions about the fine line between satire and stereotype, challenging both the creators and audiences to reconsider what constitutes humor in today’s political climate.
