Comedian Shocks Trump with Bold Prank in Scotland

During a 2016 visit to his Trump Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, Donald Trump was blindsided by a prank from British comedian Simon Brodkin, also known as “Lee Nelson.” The resort’s reopening event turned chaotic when Brodkin handed Trump golf balls with swastikas printed on them. Known for targeting celebrities and politicians, Brodkin aimed to embarrass Trump in front of guests and media.

Trump’s Reaction and Police Response

Trump was reportedly furious, demanding Brodkin be “deported” and expressing interest in legal action. However, Scottish police deescalated the situation. Brodkin recalled that police treated him more like a bachelor party guest than a criminal. They escorted him to the airport and jokingly told Trump’s team that he had been “deported.”

A Career of Satirical Stunts

Brodkin had previously pranked figures like Theresa May and Sepp Blatter. He explained that while he enjoys provoking powerful people, he avoids crossing certain lines. “There are people you just don’t prank—Kim Jong Un, the Queen… I try to hit that sweet spot,” he said. His Trump stunt was one of his boldest and most memorable.

Legacy of the Prank

The prank sparked debate over how public figures handle humor and criticism. Trump’s angry response showed “how little tolerance some public figures have for criticism,” while Brodkin’s actions highlighted comedy’s role in holding power to account. As Trump continues his political career and Brodkin his satire, the Turnberry incident remains a standout moment—“a reminder that no matter how powerful… they can still be caught off guard by something as simple as a comedian’s joke.”