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Nike’s Missed Opportunity: Caitlyn Clark’s Signature Deal and the Brand’s Major Blunder

In the ever-evolving world of sports, one name stands out as a beacon of talent, influence, and marketability—Caitlyn Clark. The Iowa basketball phenom has become a household name, not only in the world of women’s sports but on a global scale, due to her remarkable performance on the court. She has singlehandedly turned heads and broken records, establishing herself as a dominant force in women’s college basketball. So, when Nike signed Caitlyn Clark to a massive 8-year, $28 million endorsement deal, many expected it to be the beginning of a revolutionary partnership, complete with widespread promotional campaigns and a signature shoe. Yet, what followed has left fans and industry experts scratching their heads. Despite the significant potential Clark brings to the table, Nike has utterly failed to capitalize on the opportunity, leading many to believe that the sports giant has made one of the biggest mistakes in its history.

A Historic Deal That Didn’t Deliver

Caitlyn Clark’s endorsement with Nike seemed like a no-brainer. She is, after all, the most recognized female athlete in the country right now, commanding attention and respect across every platform. Her journey to becoming one of the most influential athletes in sports was swift and impactful. Clark’s electrifying performances and leadership on the court have led to record-breaking merchandise sales and ticket revenue, with the WNBA seeing a massive uptick in popularity, thanks in part to her. But while her influence continues to grow, Nike’s response to her stardom has been lackluster at best.

When Clark’s endorsement deal was announced, there was a collective sigh of excitement. The deal included promises of a signature sneaker, a rare distinction for any athlete, let alone one in the WNBA. With her meteoric rise, expectations were high for a marketing blitz that would introduce her to a global audience. Yet, after a year of dominance, not a single promotion or campaign had been rolled out for Clark. The silence from Nike was deafening, especially as her stardom continued to surge.

The Super Bowl Snub

The most glaring example of Nike’s missed opportunity came during the Super Bowl, one of the biggest advertising stages in the world. Nike, known for championing athletes in their commercials, had the perfect chance to spotlight Clark, who was, without question, one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball. But to the shock of many, she was entirely absent from their commercial. Instead, Nike chose to promote athletes like Asia Wilson, Juju Watkins, and Sabrina Ionescu, while completely disregarding the biggest star in the game. Not only was Clark’s name not mentioned, but her absence from the ad was glaringly obvious, and fans were quick to express their outrage across social media. How could Nike choose to ignore the athlete who had done more for the sport than anyone else in recent memory?

The Implications of the Oversight

This decision to exclude Caitlyn Clark from their marketing efforts sends a message, whether intentional or not, that Nike does not fully understand the value of its partnership with her. With merchandise sales skyrocketing and a growing fanbase, Clark represents everything that a sports brand like Nike should want: a powerful, marketable figure capable of driving global attention. Yet, Nike has chosen to focus on lesser-known players, many of whom still need to prove themselves in the WNBA. The decision to prioritize younger athletes over Clark shows a serious misstep by a brand that prides itself on working with the best.

While other brands like Under Armour may have seen Caitlyn Clark as the perfect athlete to represent their brand, Nike’s inability to promote her effectively raises questions about their strategy. Under Armour, which has ties with NBA superstar Steph Curry, made Clark a prime target for their women’s line, offering her a lucrative deal. In hindsight, it may have been a smarter move for Clark to have signed with Under Armour, given the brand’s willingness to invest in her image and product lines.

Clark’s Potential Beyond Nike

Despite Nike’s failure to capitalize on Caitlyn Clark’s potential, her marketability continues to grow. She has single-handedly made the WNBA more visible to a global audience, and her influence extends far beyond the court. Clark’s popularity speaks volumes, and her influence on the basketball world is undeniable. The fact that she is yet to have a signature sneaker, despite promises from Nike, is a glaring oversight. Meanwhile, lesser-known athletes in the WNBA, like Asia Wilson, have already had signature shoes released by Nike.

It’s not too late for Nike to make things right, but the longer they wait, the more damage they may do to their reputation. Caitlyn Clark is a generational talent, and it’s clear that fans are eagerly waiting for Nike to release the sneaker that was promised to her. The longer they delay, the more likely it becomes that Clark might decide to take her talents to another brand that understands her value.

Caitlyn Clark’s Future

Clark’s story is far from over, and Nike’s failure to properly promote her may only serve to strengthen her resolve. She is the future of women’s basketball, and no brand can afford to ignore her for much longer. While Nike’s stock has already taken a hit due to poor decisions and lackluster marketing campaigns, it would be wise for the company to reassess its strategy when it comes to promoting Caitlyn Clark. Other brands would jump at the chance to partner with an athlete of her caliber, and Nike might soon find itself regretting the way it has handled this iconic deal.

In conclusion, Nike’s failure to adequately promote Caitlyn Clark is a major oversight. With a history of promoting the best athletes in the world, their mishandling of Clark’s endorsement and the promise of her signature shoe represents a massive missed opportunity. Clark will continue to thrive, whether Nike supports her or not. But the sports giant risks losing out on a generational talent if it does not act quickly to make things right.

Taylor Swift is not afraid to “Shake It Off,” and if you’ve seen just about any award show – including the 2025 Grammys – you’d know that to be very true. Across her career, the pop star has made headlines for busting a move at these high-profile events even when no one else is. Now, an old interview has resurfaced where she explains her unabashed dancing, and it makes me want to get down with her to any sick beat.

(Image credit: Recording Academy/GRAMMYs YouTube Channel)

This all came up because Swift was speaking about “Shake It Off” and the inspirations for that song during an interview about 1989 for Scholastic Web Chat (via tayswiftruclub). The track came to be in part because of how she dances at award shows and the attention she gets for it. However, that attention doesn’t bother her one bit, as she explained while talking about why she loves to bust a move:

I have like the best time dancing when people are performing. I think it’s so cool that you’re at this award show and there’s so many cool artists up on stage and they’re performing their songs, it’s like you’re at the best concert ever. But you’re sitting there and you’re in the front row of this award show and every artist is like this [makes a scowling face], like as if they’re bored by it. But it’s the coolest thing, those are the greatest artists out right now, they’re performing for you. I just decided I would have fun with it so I’m always up and dancing.

She really is “always up and dancing.” At the Grammys this year, she could be seen jamming out to Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX and more. Heck, she even got and wore Janelle Monáe’s jacket after her energizing performance. And that was only this year.

Every year, she makes headlines for this. In 2022, Swift danced with Dylan O’Brien at the VMAs. In 2023, she went viral for busting a move to Demi Lovato, Shakira and more. She also notably made headlines in 2024 for dancing to Katy Perry’s performance. And those are just three examples out of what feels like a countless number.

To that point, the “Out of the Woods” singer explained that she knows she dances awkwardly, but that doesn’t matter, because she’s having a blast. It was that notion that inspired one of Swift’s best music videos, “Shake It Off,” as she explained:

I’m really tall and lanky, so I look a little bit like a baby giraffe learning how to walk while I dance. So, there would be all over the internet it was like ‘Taylor Swift looks awkward when she dances.’ Like ‘She’s so bad at dancing.’ And so the way I handle that now, like that criticism, is I wrote a song called ‘Shake It Off,’ and as soon as I wrote the song, I knew exactly what I wanted to do for the music video. I knew that I wanted to do an entire music video of me awkwardly, badly dancing.

Taylor Swift – Shake It Off – YouTube 

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Following the 2025 Grammys, this clip of Swift talking about her love for dancing at these shows went viral again on TikTok thanks to swiftstorturedpoetry. Many fans took to the comments to show their support for her actions and the meaning behind them, and I think it’s safe to say we want to “shake it off” with Taylor Swift one day:

The “yes I am doing this awkwardly, but I’m having more fun than you” is one of my mantras that really did change my life and personality. -Sam

She meant THATS A FREE CONCERT IN FRONT OF YOU!! -Shenna

Mind you that interview was 10 years ago. Like it just felt so amazing that a person can go through so many phases and changes but never really go anywhere. She’s still the same soul we’ve known. -mloitran

This is why admire her. She’s teaching young girls that it’s okay to live even if you look awkward! -Jaz

I legitimately love how much she loves music. -Shea

She has never changed, never will. Love you Taylor 🥰 -Ryan_Skywalker432

I agree with every single one of these on a spiritual level. Every time Taylor Swift has a new project, I’m always dancing with joy and to the music, and I do so shamelessly, like I’m at an award show with her.

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So, it’s nice to know she’s just as enthusiastic and as much of a fangirl as us. The gal loves music deeply, and that is infectious, especially when we get to see her show it through her award-show dance moves.

Riley Utley is the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. She has written for national publications as well as daily and alt-weekly newspapers in Spokane, Washington, Syracuse, New York and Charleston, South Carolina. She graduated with her master’s degree in arts journalism and communications from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Since joining the CB team she has covered numerous TV shows and movies — including her personal favorite shows Ted Lasso and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. She also has followed and consistently written about everything from Taylor Swift to Fire Country, and she’s enjoyed every second of it.

NFL News: Andy Reid’s Chiefs already sign potential Patrick Mahomes’ backup as Carson Wentz hits free agency

With Carson Wentz set for free agency in March, Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs may have already found the backup quarterback for Patrick Mahomes ahead of the 2025 NFL season.

Changes could be coming on the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the 2025 NFL season. While two Super Bowl champions with Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes left for the New York Giants, the team knows that it could also lose Carson Wentz in free agency.

The veteran quarterback’s one-year deal with Kansas City is expiring, which is why the 32-year-old can explore his options in the open market in March. The front office, however, has already made a move in case Wentz leaves.

The NFL’s personnel notice from February 11 shows that the Chiefs signed quarterback Chris Oladokun to a reserve/future contract, in a move that grants Reid some depth behind Mahomes ahead of the 2025 season.

Chris Oladokun’s history with Reid, Mahomes’ Chiefs

Oladokun, 27, has been around Reid and Mahomes since 2022, when he joined the Chiefs’ practice squad only a few days after being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had used a seventh-round pick to get him in that year’s NFL Draft.

Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs and Chris Oladokun #13 of the Kansas City Chiefs speak during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

The Florida native wasn’t activated until the 2023 NFL regular season finale, but didn’t play a single snap against the Los Angeles Chargers. Oladokun’s first appearance in an official game for the Chiefs came in this season’s Week 18 loss to the Denver Broncos.

Wentz got his first start on a Chiefs uniform that day, going 10-of-17 for 98 yards before Reid gave Oladokun the chance to make his NFL debut, with the 27-year-old logging one rush for five yards in his short time on the field.

Oladokun’s contribution to the Chiefs’ success as the scout team QB

Oladokun’s role on the Chiefs all these years was limited to the practice squad, where he often helped the defense prepare for games by mimicking opposing quarterbacks. Last year, for instance, Oladokun earned Reid’s praise for his imitation of Lamar Jackson ahead of the 2024 AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens.

“Coach (Andy) Reid was like, ‘Hey, this has never been done before, but our Defensive Player of the Game’ and he said my name and the defense was fired up for me,” Oladokun told Justin Stuckey on the ‘Stuck in My Thoughts’ podcast in July 2024, via Chiefs Wire. “To have that validation, like, ‘We need you. You helped us win this game, and it is something I’ll never forget because I’m not waking up at 5:30 every morning for nothing. I’m valuable to this team.”

Another chance for Oladokun to battle for backup role behind Mahomes

Oladokun’s lack of playing time in the NFL, however, may raise a big question mark on how much the Chiefs can rely on him to be Mahomes’ backup in 2025. That said, he does know Reid’s system in and out. And the coach tends to stick to players familiar with the playbook.

Of course, it’s the chance he’s been working for all these years. We’ll have to wait and see whether it’s against Wentz or another quarterback, but at least Oladokun will get the opportunity to battle for the backup spot this summer.

NFL decides on Super Bowl punishments after Patrick Mahomes incident

Jalen Carter was not punished by the NFL for his hit on Patrick Mahomes, but two of his Philadelphia Eagles teammates were fined for their actions during the Super Bowl triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Many fans thought that star defensive tackle Carter would be fined for unnecessary roughness after dealing a wicked blow to Mahomes’ helmet during a strip sack in the fourth quarter of the blowout Lombardi Trophy triumph in New Orleans on Feb. 9.

Carter, who was fined $17,445 for striking Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz in the helmet in the NFC championship game, was not flagged for the play, which resulted in Milton Williams landing on the loose ball. Williams, however, was fined for his celebration, dunking the ball over the crossbar as Philly closed in on a 40-22 victory at Caesars Superdome.

The officials did not throw a flag, but the NFL’s Football Operations department was not impressed by Williams’ conduct. The 25-year-old defensive tackle – a third-round pick in 2021 – was fined $14,069 for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Outside linebacker Jalyx Hunt also was punished for a celebration in the Super Bowl. After dragging Mahomes to the deck midway through the second quarter, the third-round rookie made a bow-and-arrow gesture. The celebration was a violation of the league’s rules on violent gestures and he was hit with a $5,690.

Money raised from fines is passed from the NFL to the Professional Athletes Foundation and the NFL Foundation to support former players in need and invest in safety research. Around $4 million has been donated to the causes each season since 2011.

Both players will doubtless be frustrated by having to send hefty cheques to the league, but that will certainly outweighed by the satisfaction of securing their first Super Bowl rings.

Mahomes and the Chiefs were chasing an unprecedented third straight Super Bowl win, but they proved no match for the Eagles, who physically dominated throughout the contest. Led by big contributions from both quarterback Jalen Hurts and a fearsome defense, the Eagles romped to a 24-0 lead at the half and rapidly extinguished any hope of a second-half fightback from the Chiefs by stretching the winning margin to 34-6 at the end of the third quarter.

Mahomes, who threw two interceptions in what was perhaps the worst performance of his career, took responsibility for the defeat. “Credit to the Eagles they played better than us from start to finish, he said.

“Obviously, the turnovers hurt – I’ve just got to take all the blame for that. Those early turnovers swung the momentum of the game, and they capitalized on them. It was kind of 14 points that I gave them and it’s hard to come back from that at the Super Bowl. I just didn’t play to my standard and I have to be better next time.”

Stephen A Smith has talked up a potential run at the United States presidency, claiming he could upstage any Democratic hopeful amid rumors of him running for office in 2028.

Stephen A. Smith (Photo via Tori Lynn Schneider/USA TODAY NETWORK)

While the ESPN star is unlikely to ever run, a recent poll revealed that two percent of voters would pick him as the next president. He was just one point behind former Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz and Pennsylvania’s sitting Governor Josh Shapiro.

Some folks have suggested that sports anchor should take it seriously as he has indicated that he has political aspirations. And Smith reckons he would be quite the hit if he ever decided to be a candidate.

“I’m qualified to be a hell-raiser,” he said in a recent interview. “I’m going to bring the rain. Nobody is safe with me. Not a Democrat. Not a Republican. No one.”

The ‘First Take’ host supports the Democratic party but thinks it did a poor job managing the country over the past term.

“Woke culture and cancel culture ravaged the country,” he said recently. “The Democrats were way more focused on that than the economy, immigration, and crime.”

Stephen A Smith Admits He Isn’t Qualified To Be President

Stephen A. Smith (Image Credit: Getty Images)

Despite the above, Stephen A Smith has insisted he isn’t going to run for office.

TMZ caught up with the star journalists in New Orleans last week and tried asking him whether there was any chance of him running. He cut them off before they were able to get the question out.

“I ain’t trying to run for office or anything like that,” he said. “I love talking politics. I love talking about things not just sports. If the American people want to sit up there and say ‘Yo we want Stephen A. to run’ I’m not going to be mad at that.

“I don’t know what the hell they’re thinking. I ain’t qualified, but if you want to go ahead and entertain it, you can go ahead and entertain it.”

While the outspoken sports show host has zero political experience, he also acknowledged that it isn’t necessary as Donald Trump has won two elections without a political history before his first run.

“He’s inspired all of us because if he can be president, a lot of us could be president,” he remarked.

Jaylen Brown Subtly Throws Shade At All-Star Weekend Crowd While Advocating For Boston As A Future Host

Jaylen Brown (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images)
Boston Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown dazzled fans with his fourth All-Star appearance at the thrilling 2025 NBA All-Star event. Notably, this marks his third straight year as an NBA All-Star. Teaming up with fellow stars Jayson Tatum, James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, Brown guided Team Shaq to an impressive victory in the tournament. Despite this triumph, Brown encountered some challenges throughout the event.

The Golden State Warriors hosted the 2025 NBA All-Star event at Chase Center. After winning the trophy, Brown addressed the media and subtly criticized the crowd at All-Star Weekend, pointing out that attendance was lower than expected. He also suggested that Boston should be considered as a future host city for the event.

“I think the city is equipped for it. I think the fans — we’ve got the craziest fans in the world in Boston, so I’m sure that they would enjoy it. It kind of seemed like it was a little empty in here tonight. I don’t think in Boston that would happen. So if we bring the All-Star Game to Boston, I would love to be there, and I would love to participate. I think that would be great for the game.” Brown said.

Brown played for 6 minutes in the semifinal game against Team Candace, during which he scored 8 points. In the Finals of the 2025 All-Star event, Team Shaq faced Team Chuck. Brown played for 7 minutes in that game, scoring 4 points and recording 1 rebound.

Jayson Tatum Selects Jaylen Brown As His Partner To Play Against Tough NBA Duo

Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum’s synergy on the court was evident during the last NBA season, where the dominating duo excelled, especially in the postseason. Both stars led the team to the NBA championship in the 2023-24 season. In the ongoing 2024-25 season, they are once again leading the team in hopes of clinching the title.

 

The Los Angeles Lakers recently acquired Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal with the Dallas Mavericks, creating a formidable duo with LeBron James. During a recent interview, a reporter asked Tatum to choose a partner to face James and Doncic on the court.

Reporter: “If you had to pick a partner to play against LeBron and Luka, which partner would you pick and why?”

Tatum: “Jaylen Brown.”

The Celtics are in an impressive position in the 2024-25 NBA season. They currently hold the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 39 wins and 16 losses. Their next game will be against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center.

VIDEO: Social Media Detectives Think They Know Why Lakers Superstar LeBron James Hugged Every NBA All-Star Except Jaylen Brown Before Opting Out Of The Main Event

LeBron James and Jaylen Brown (Image Credit: @Mavs_FFL/X)
Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was selected for his 21st NBA All-Star Game. Unfortunately, he was unable to participate in the 2025 All-Star festivities due to ongoing soreness in his foot and ankle, injuries that have been affecting his performance.

This disappointing situation not only prevented him from showcasing his skills on the All-Star stage but also marked the end of an impressive streak—his consecutive starts in the All-Star Game now stand at 20.

Despite missing the All-Star Game, James made a special trip to the locker room to connect with the players participating in the festivities. His presence was a highlight as he warmly embraced several of the stars in attendance, starting with Jayson Tatum. Next, he greeted Kyrie Irving with a familiar dap. LeBron also took a moment to interact with Nikola Jokic. Karl-Anthony Towns received a hearty hug.

Victor Wembanyama appeared thrilled as LeBron offered him a warm embrace, recognizing the promising talent he brings to the league. However, when it came to Jaylen Brown, LeBron opted for a handshake rather than the typical embrace shared with the others.

Fans React to LeBron James Skipping A Hug With Jaylen Brown

When MFFL posted the video of James meeting with the 2025 NBA All-Star players on X (formerly Twitter), fans began reacting in the comments section. Several fans pointed out that James ignored Brown when they met, noting that James didn’t hug him. Furthermore, some fans proposed that this omission may stem from Brown’s previous critiques of James’ son, Bronny James. To add further speculation, others indicated that Brown’s current challenges with Nike could have influenced James’ decision to forgo that gesture.

 

James and Brown haven’t made any official comments about the incident. However, fans remain optimistic to learn the reason why James ignored hugging Brown.

One of the greatest attributes of Nashville’s country music scene is the fact that you never know who you’re going to see on any given day. One could go to a concert and simply expect to see the headlining act, though, they likely wouldn’t be too surprised to see several other country music sensations appear on stage. That’s just the name of the game, and that is exactly what happened recently with Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood.

Videos by American Songwriter

On Valentine’s Day Weekend, Cody Johnson took the stage at Bridgestone Arena, sold out two shows, and played in front of 30,000 people. Regarding his success, Johnson took to Instagram and wrote, “Two SOLD OUT shows in Nashville. 30,000 people. Absolutely unreal. Dreams do come true, y’all.”

In the latter portion of his message, Johnson thanked Marcus King, Luke Combs, Randy Houser, and Ian Munsick for joining him on stage. Though, the individual who thanked Johnson was the American Idol judge, Carrie Underwood.

Carrie Underwood Sings Johnson’s Praises

On the second night of Johnson’s two-night Nashville stint, Carrie Underwood joined Cody Johnson on stage and sang, “I’m Gonna Love You.” Of course, the fans in attendance erupted when Underwood took the stage, though, it seems Underwood shared a similar giddy attitude following the show.

After the show, Underwood took to Instagram and wrote, “Fun with friends! ‘Twas a pleasure joining @codyjohnson on stage Saturday night at @bridgestonearenaofficial! He’s the real deal, folks! Such a great show and what a LOUD crowd.” Underwood’s appearance at Johnson’s show seemingly marks the second time the pair has collaborated. The first one was when the two recorded their single, “I’m Gonna Love You,” for Johnson’s album, Leather.

In addition to Underwood’s appearance, Johnson also brought up Luke Combs for his final night in Nashville. Johnson brought up Combs for the final song, and the two sang “Beer Never Broke My Heart” for the show’s final encore. Cody Johnson’s next show is on February 21 in Buffalo, New York with special guests Ashley McBryde and Lanie Gardner. Lastly, Carrie Underwood will make her American Idol return on Sunday, March 9.

Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ABA

VIDEO: Everyone Is Praising Shedeur Sanders For His Ruthless Actions Towards Angel Reese During Celebrity Flag Football Game

Angel Reese and Shedeur Sanders (via Imagn Images)
Shedeur Sanders is among the best prospects in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. The Colorado quarterback could be taken as high as in the top five, along with his teammate, wide receiver, and cornerback Travis Hunter.

Angel Reese, however, is one of the best WNBA players, or will soon be, as she was taken as a top draft pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. The former LSU Tiger may have struggled in her rookie season but is looking to bounce back in 2025.

Both Shedeur and Angel recently crossed paths at a star-studded football event prior to Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans. With the signal caller’s reaction to seeing the star basketball player, fans are now making all sorts of assumptions.

Shedeur Sanders Avoided Angel Reese

Cameras during the celebrity flag football game ahead of Super Bowl 59 followed Shedeur as he passed Reese. As he passes the WNBA star, he can be seen trying to avoid her and pulling out his phone.

“He would have stopped for Caitlin Clark,” joked another fan.

It’s unclear whether Shedeur is into the WNBA star. However, if he is, he certainly knows how to play his cards. That or he is just focused on the draft, and that still bodes well for the teams who may want to draft him. Either way, Shedeur Sanders and Angel Reese would be an interesting combo.\

Supporters of Donald Trump are furious after Hollywood star Tom Hanks appeared on Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special, portraying a Trump voter in a controversial skit.

Donald Trump supporters voiced outrage online after Tom Hanks portrayed a Trump voter during Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special.

Many critics had been seen cheering for Trump at the Super Bowl before condemning the skit.

The controversy centered on a Black Jeopardy! sketch, first aired in 2014. Hanks played Doug, a Trump supporter in a “Make America Great Again” cap and an American eagle T-shirt.

Despite assumptions that the quiz catered to the Black community, Doug answered all questions correctly, surprising host Darnell Hayes, played by Kenan Thompson.

At one point, Hayes extended his hand to shake Doug’s, adding to the irony. Initially hesitant, Doug eventually agrees to the handshake.

Hanks’ character then remarks: “Don’t like that, whoa, whoa, whoa,” before suggesting: “Maybe I’ll start a show for you to come on and we’ll call it ‘White Jeopardy’.

At one point, Hayes extended his hand to shake Doug’s, adding to the irony.

Tom Hanks faces HUGE backlash online from conservative voters

The sketch sparked significant backlash from Trump supporters, leading to a wave of criticism aimed at SNL, NBC, and Tom Hanks.

Many viewers took to social media to express their frustration, calling the portrayal unfair and out of touch.

Right-wing commentator Benny Johnson reacted strongly, stating, “Donald Trump just won a landslide election and has never been more popular with Americans. They have learned nothing.”

Similarly, prominent right-wing commentator Mario Nawfal weighed in, calling the comedic segment “tone deaf,” further fueling the debate over the sketch’s intent and impact.

Benny Johnson criticized the sketch, arguing: “Hollywood still doesn’t get it: Portraying Trump supporters as racist caricatures while he’s winning record minority support. SNL’s trying 2016 jokes in 2025.”

Link Lauren, a former aide to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., also expressed disapproval, believing the sketch implied that many Trump voters are racist: “Trump won the popular vote. This tired trope that MAGA is racist is disgusting. SNL is an unfunny show for snobbish liberal elites. Good riddance, SNL!”

Many other fans took to social media, feeling deeply offended by Tom Hanks—possibly the lowest moment of his career.