Tom Hanks Reprises MAGA Character on SNL’s 50th Anniversary Special
During Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special, actor Tom Hanks revisited his role as a Trump supporter named Doug in a new “Black Jeopardy” sketch. The segment has reignited debates about political satire and representation on the long-running comedy show.
Key Details of the Sketch
Tom Hanks wore a “Make America Great Again” hat while playing Doug. The character initially refused to shake hands with the Black host, played by Kenan Thompson. This was a reprisal of Hanks’ role from a 2016 “Black Jeopardy” sketch.
Reactions and Commentary
The sketch has drawn both criticism and support from different political perspectives:
Critical Reactions:
Some conservative commentators viewed it as an unfair portrayal of Trump supporters as racist. Clay Travis noted that Trump’s recent election victory was “the LEAST racially divisive American election since 1964.”
Supportive Views:
Defenders saw it as pointed political satire in line with SNL’s history. Some argued it reflected real racial dynamics in American politics.
Historical Context
SNL has a long tradition of political satire spanning administrations of both parties:
The show has featured impersonations of presidents and politicians since its debut in 1975. Past sketches have targeted figures like Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton. SNL writer Jim Downey emphasized their goal was “to get laughs from everyone” rather than advocate specific views.
Broader Impact and Significance
This sketch highlights ongoing debates about:
1. The role of political comedy in shaping public discourse
2. Portrayals of different political groups in mainstream media
3. SNL’s continued cultural relevance after 50 years on air
While some argue these portrayals can influence public opinion, others note SNL’s political sketches haven’t demonstrably swayed election outcomes.
Looking Ahead
As SNL celebrates its 50th anniversary, the show continues to navigate a polarized political landscape. Its approach to political humor will likely remain a topic of discussion among viewers, critics, and scholars of American popular culture.
For those interested in exploring further:
- Full history of SNL’s political sketches
- Academic analysis of comedy’s impact on public opinion
- SNL’s ratings and viewership trends over time
