Donald Trump’s Turnberry hotel to host controversial Katie Hopkins show

Controversial commentator Katie Hopkins is scheduled to hold a show at Donald Trump’s Turnberry hotel in South Ayrshire, sparking political controversy and calls for the event to be cancelled. Hopkins, known for her divisive remarks about migrants, race, and other sensitive topics, is set to use the hotel’s grand ballroom for a 90-minute performance next year. Despite their past public support for each other, the event signifies a new phase in Trump and Hopkins’ association.

Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, criticised Turnberry for hosting Hopkins, calling her a “hate-monger” on the extreme fringes of politics. This move has also caused discomfort among some members of Turnberry golf club and hotel staff who have sought to distance themselves from Trump’s political affiliations. Hopkins’ previous controversial statements have attracted widespread criticism, including incidents where she dehumanised migrants and made insensitive remarks about tragedies like the Manchester Arena bombing.

Relations between Trump and Hopkins go back several years, with Trump even lauding her as a “respected columnist” on social media. Despite facing backlash and legal challenges for her views, Hopkins continues to attract a following. The upcoming show at Turnberry is part of her “Batsh*t Bonkers Britain” tour, where tickets range from £34 to £54, with VIP packages costing £300 per person. The event has not been promoted on Trump Turnberry’s social media platforms.

Critics like Harvie have called for the event to be cancelled, citing concerns over promoting far-right political platforms. A Trump Turnberry spokesman declined to comment on the booking, and Hopkins did not respond to enquiries. The controversial show is set to take place next June and is described as a stand-up comedy performance offering an “escape for all adults in your family”, with potential warning of strobe lighting and loud noises.

In my view, hosting Katie Hopkins at Trump Turnberry raises serious ethical questions about endorsing divisive and harmful rhetoric. The convergence of politics, media, and entertainment in this event underscores the need for responsible decision-making in the public sphere. It also highlights the challenges in navigating free speech and hate speech, especially in the context of commercial enterprises like hotels. This controversial event serves as a reminder of the power dynamics at play when influential figures collaborate, and the impact it can have on society at large.