Tom Hanks Sparks Controversy with “Black Jeopardy” Return on SNL

Tom Hanks reignited debate after reprising his role as Doug from the popular “Black Jeopardy” sketch during Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special. Doug, a clueless Trump supporter sporting a MAGA hat, first appeared in 2016. The character cleverly highlighted both the differences and unexpected similarities between Trump supporters and Black culture.

A Sketch Born in a Contentious Election Year

The original “Black Jeopardy” aired amid the heated 2016 election. Hanks’ Doug, a white Trump backer, found surprising common ground with Black contestants. Their interactions blended humor with thoughtful insights. Critics praised the sketch for its nuanced take on cultural divides and shared experiences.

Mixed Reactions to the 2025 Revival

However, the recent performance divided audiences. While some welcomed the return, others found Doug’s portrayal outdated or offensive. The 50th anniversary special did not shy away from political commentary, setting a bold tone throughout the night.

Political Jabs and Satire Throughout the Special

Steve Martin opened with a jab at President Trump’s controversial renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.” Martin joked, “I was actually vacationing on a friend’s boat down in the Gulf of Steve Martin.” Soon after, Martin Short joined him, leading to a comedic moment mocking Short’s Canadian roots with a fake ICE call.

The show also included a parody of Les Misérables’ “I Dreamed a Dream,” humorously referencing Trump’s move from Manhattan: “I dreamed a dream that King Kong died, then I remembered he’s in Florida.”

Lorne Michaels: SNL’s Aim at Power

SNL creator Lorne Michaels emphasized the show’s mission. He stated bluntly, “Whoever is in power is probably awful,” underscoring the program’s focus on satirizing those in authority.

Highlights from the “Black Jeopardy” Sketch

In the revived sketch, Doug refuses to shake hands with host Darnell Hayes, played by Kenan Thompson. The lineup included Leslie Jones, Tracy Morgan, and Eddie Murphy as contestants. A standout moment featured Eddie Murphy impersonating Tracy Morgan, adding a fresh comedic twist to the segment.