Tom Hanks’ unexpected return to Saturday Night Live for its 50th anniversary stirred controversy due to his portrayal of a Trump supporter. While intended as a tribute to the show’s history, the sketch instead heightened political tensions and drew criticism online. Joy Behar of The View acknowledged the frustration among Trump supporters, stating, “They’re upset because they feel like anyone who voted for Trump is being painted as racist.” She also noted that many voters felt let down by unfulfilled promises.
Meanwhile, co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin dismissed the backlash as overblown. Former SNL cast member Victoria Jackson expressed disappointment over the segment. Political commentator Link Lauren condemned the skit as “disgusting,” accusing the show of unfairly stereotyping MAGA supporters.
Viewers took to social media to criticize the sketch. One user wrote, “SNL and Tom Hanks just recycled the same joke, mocking 77 million Americans as ignorant, racist rednecks.” Others took issue with the reuse of a handshake gag from Hanks’ 2016 Black Jeopardy sketch, calling it repetitive and outdated.
