We have long become accustomed to actors holding and sharing their progressive political views. So when David Tennant opened the Bafta awards on Sunday with a dig at Donald Trump, repeating the line that the American President is a dangerous moron, many people were annoyed, but few were surprised. Mechanically reciting fashionable mantras is what actors do, and Tennant, hitherto known for his vocal support for the trans movement, is no exception. The entire film Team America: World Police (2004) was founded on this reality about thespians.
When his counterpart on the other side of the Atlantic, Tom Hanks, did similarly at the weekend, there was, however, genuine shock. Appearing on the 50th anniversary special of Saturday Night Live, Hanks took performed a sketch he first took part in in 2016. Dressed as a slovenly hick, speaking with the voice of a slack-jawed yokel, Hanks put on a performance of what America’s liberals like to believe is a typical Trump supporter: a stupid, racist and religious bigot, a hillbilly who recoils from shaking hands with a black man.
This is not merely condescending and insulting, it sits in stark contrast with the public perception of Tom Hanks as a man for all people, one based on his big screen performances.
Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in