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Tom Hanks Insults News Network Live On Air
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Tom Hanks Insults News Network Live On Air

The Obama Presidential Center officially opens to the public on June 19, but its launch festivities began earlier with a star-studded ceremony packed with politicians, celebrities, and the kind of carefully choreographed messaging that accompanies almost every major Obama-related event.

The centerpiece of the celebration was a Thursday gathering that organizers described as a “dynamic ceremony,” one that was livestreamed for viewers around the world. The event featured a lengthy roster of public figures eager to honor former President Barack Obama and the legacy project that bears his name.


Among the familiar faces was actor Tom Hanks, a longtime favorite of Democrats and a regular participant in political and civic events connected to the party. Hanks was making the media rounds during the ceremony when he found himself in a memorable exchange with MSNBC host Jacob Soboroff.

After Soboroff jokingly confused Hanks with historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, the actor responded with a quip that quickly gained attention online.

“What can I do for the 800 people watching MS NOW?” Hanks asked.

Soboroff immediately pushed back.

“We’re live on MS NOW!” he replied.

Hanks smiled and delivered the follow-up line.

“All right. Add a zero if need be.”

Whether intended as a harmless joke or a subtle jab, the remark landed because it touched on a reality that has become increasingly difficult for MSNBC and CNN to ignore. Ratings have become a growing challenge for both networks, particularly as Fox News continues to dominate much of the cable news landscape.


The exchange stood out precisely because Hanks is rarely viewed as a critic of liberal media outlets. If anything, he is often regarded as one of Hollywood’s most reliable Democratic allies. That made the joke all the more surprising to viewers who watched the interview unfold live.

Written by Arthur Higgens - June 19, 2026