My (Media) Introduction to Donald Trump
Trump has been a character in American media for almost as long as I can remember. Recently I found myself reflecting on the exact moment when first I encountered the persona of Trump, or at least the first time there was a lasting impression. My first memorable introduction was provided by a Saturday Night Live sketch which dates back to 1988. Phil Hartmand played "The Donald" and Jan Hooks played his then wife, Ivana, as they celebrated Christmas. The skit undoubtedly appeared for several years in "Best of Holiday/Christmas" specials, so I am not entirely sure what year I might have first watched it.
Watch the full sketch at NBC's Site:
http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/trump-christmas-cold-opening/n9729?snl=1
Trump is one of the few, if not only character, to have a 30 year arc on the SNL program. Of course SNL's network NBC, would help to further develop the character of Trump with a staring role in a show that would run 14 seasons, The Apprentice.
For decades now, even children's programming hasn't been able to resist creating caricatures of Trump. Nearly 30 years ago, Ronald Grump makes his first appearance on the extremely popular PBS children's' show Sesame Street.
Well over a decade later Donald Grump, takes on a more familiar appearance as he rises to demagogue status in the eyes of the Grouches.
Can you think of any other American businessman or politician who has received this level of saturation in American media? Was he born for, or of, media?
One thing we can agree on is that no American President has had as much exposure on mainstream media since at least Regan (and possibly never). Of course my favorite may always be Trump's work with the WWE.
Who needs 14 seasons of the of The Apprentice when 40 seconds of professional wrestling says it all?