Baron Cohen defends Ali G return in Time essay
The actor says he revived Ali G because the character is outdated and problematic, in a cover essay for Time magazine.
Sacha Baron Cohen has written a cover essay for Time magazine defending his return as Ali G in the film "Ali G: Who Iz I?", amid criticism of the character's comeback.
In the essay, Baron Cohen said he brought the character back because Ali G is outdated and problematic. He described him as a white imbecile and a delusional cultural appropriator, and said the joke is on the character and on the establishment.
The essay identifies the character's full name as Alistair Graham. "Ali G: Who Iz I?" features Morgana Robinson as Julie.
At the film's recent premiere, Baron Cohen appeared in character and made a remark about the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger and Sydney Sweeney.
Two decades away
Ali G had been retired for more than a decade and returns after about 20 years away. The comeback has drawn criticism over sexism, cultural appropriation and racism, according to Variety.
Quick answers
How long has Ali G been away?
The character had been retired for more than a decade and returns after about 20 years away.
What is Ali G's full name?
Baron Cohen's Time essay gives the character's full name as Alistair Graham.
Who plays Julie in the film?
Morgana Robinson plays Julie in "Ali G: Who Iz I?".