Ali G is back. But is the character past its sell-by date?

Sacha Baron Cohen is bringing back Ali G in *Ali G: Who iz I?*, a sequel to the 2002 film due in cinemas on Friday. The character’s return has drawn criticism over whether its humour challenges racial prejudice or repeats stereotypes, renewing a debate about who bears the joke.

Ali G became widely known through deadpan interviews with public figures, and catchphrases such as “Is it because I is black?” entered popular culture. Comedian Dane Baptiste says phrases from the character were used to trivialise real complaints about racism, and argues the character is a “black caricature”. Labour MP Paulette Hamilton has also called Ali G racist; protests took place at the first film’s 2002 premiere.