Trump Lashes Out at Tom Hanks Following Canceled West Point Tribute
The former president criticized the Hollywood star after the U.S. Military Academy scrapped a planned event honoring Hanks, citing political tensions.
📝 Story
Former President Donald Trump has launched a blistering attack on actor Tom Hanks after the U.S. Military Academy at West Point abruptly canceled a ceremony meant to honor the Oscar-winning actor.
The event, originally intended to recognize Hanks for his contributions to World War II remembrance projects — including his role in Saving Private Ryan and co-production of Band of Brothers — was called off amid concerns it could spark political controversy.
Trump, in a post on his social media platform, accused Hanks of being “a radical liberal mouthpiece” and claimed that West Point was right to avoid what he called “Hollywood propaganda.”
Supporters of Hanks slammed Trump’s comments as baseless, noting the actor’s long history of bipartisan philanthropy and his widely respected efforts to preserve veterans’ legacies. Critics said Trump’s remarks reflect a broader effort to politicize cultural figures and institutions.
West Point officials did not directly address Trump’s remarks but said the decision to cancel the event was made “to avoid unnecessary political distractions.”
📊 Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Ceremony at West Point honoring Tom Hanks for WWII-related contributions |
| Cancellation | Academy scrapped event citing potential political controversy |
| Trump Reaction | Called Hanks a “radical liberal” and accused him of pushing propaganda |
| Hanks Reputation | Widely respected for supporting veterans and bipartisan initiatives |
| Public Response | Outrage from fans, veterans’ groups, and critics of Trump’s attack |
🎤 Reactions
- Donald Trump: “West Point was right not to cave to Hollywood propaganda.”
- Supporters of Hanks: Pointed to his decades of work honoring veterans.
- West Point Officials: Emphasized the need to avoid political distractions.
- Public Opinion: Divided, with many condemning Trump for politicizing a respected figure.
📺 Suggested Broadcast Script (25 seconds)
“Former President Donald Trump is attacking actor Tom Hanks after West Point canceled a ceremony honoring the Hollywood star. The event was meant to recognize Hanks for his work preserving World War II history, but the academy pulled the plug over fears of political controversy. Trump called Hanks a ‘radical liberal,’ while supporters say the actor’s decades of work with veterans speak for themselves.”
🏷️ Tags / Focus Key Phrase
- Focus key phrase: Trump attacks Tom Hanks West Point event
- Slug:
trump-attacks-tom-hanks-west-point-event - Tags: Donald Trump, Tom Hanks, West Point, Military Academy, Veterans, Hollywood, Politics
