Victoria Jackson denies ‘slamming' Tom Hanks over SNL 50 MAGA sketch: Exclusive
(NewsNation) — Former Saturday Night Live cast member Victoria Jackson is shutting down reports that she criticized Tom Hanks over his portrayal of a MAGA supporter during the SNL 50 anniversary special. The comedian, who was on SNL from 1986 to 1992, clarified her stance in an exclusive interview with NewsNation, emphasizing that she enjoyed the reunion and holds no resentment toward Hanks.
Following the SNL 50 event, several media outlets — including TMZ — published stories claiming Jackson was offended by Hanks' return as 'Doug' in the Black Jeopardy sketch. Jackson, however, insists the headlines misrepresented her views.
'TMZ exaggerated everything I said and put it up,' Jackson stated. 'I had a great time at the reunion… It was fun, exciting, and interesting.'
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While she admitted that she wasn't a fan of the sketch, she said it wasn't surprising, as she believes SNL has always been critical of Trump supporters.
'SNL always puts down Trump supporters — there's nothing new about that. Every sketch they write bashes Trump,' Jackson explained. 'When I saw the sketch, I thought, 'Oh brother.' But I don't think Tom Hanks wrote it. Tom didn't have to do it, but I wasn't mad at him. I've worked with him before, and I love him.'
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Despite the viral controversy, Jackson described her real-life interaction with Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, at the SNL 50 event as warm and friendly.
'We all said hello,' she recalled. 'I hugged Rita, who is a fellow breast cancer survivor. She's super sweet and kind.'
Many fans questioned whether Jackson actually attended the event, as she wasn't featured in any on-camera moments or sketches. Jackson confirmed that she was there in the studio but seated off to the side.
'They put (producer Lorne Michaels') favorite people in prominent sections on camera, and they put people who aren't hot on the side,' she said.
She was seated near several cast members who were only on SNL for one season, but she made it clear she wasn't upset about her placement.
'I don't have hurt feelings. If I had to choose between me and Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively (who are all over the press these days), I'd choose them too!'
Jackson also reflected on her experience at the SNL 40th Anniversary Special, revealing that she was initially placed in an overflow room instead of the main studio. It wasn't until SNL writer Robert Smigel noticed and intervened that she was brought into the live event.
Despite her political differences with SNL, Jackson said she still found moments to enjoy, particularly highlighting the return of Rachel Dratch's 'Debbie Downer' sketch.
'The show has always been liberally biased, but I find there are funny moments,' she said.
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While acknowledging that she expects criticism for her conservative views, she remains grateful for her time on SNL.
'I assume most people in the media are liberally biased. I've always expected to be persecuted — Jesus was persecuted. But Lorne respected me and gave me the best job of my life, so I'm grateful.'
Despite viral headlines suggesting otherwise, Victoria Jackson did not 'slam' Tom Hanks for his SNL 50 appearance. While she didn't agree with the MAGA sketch, she insists she had a great time at the reunion, enjoyed reconnecting with fellow cast members, and remains grateful for her time on SNL.
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Meanwhile, Jackson has great taste in the news. When she found out I was calling from NewsNation she exclaimed: 'I love NewsNation!' We love you too, Victoria.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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