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SNL Condemned Over Tourette’s Sketch as BAFTAs Host Alan Cumming Calls Broadcast a ‘Trauma‑Triggering’ Sh*tshow

The backlash centers on the BBC’s failure to remove an involuntary slur from a delayed BAFTAs telecast, with internal reviews under way and charities warning the sketch fuels stigma.

Overview

  • Tourettes Action labeled SNL’s cut-for-time, online PSA-style sketch “unacceptable,” saying it mocks a disability and risks undoing years of awareness work.
  • Alan Cumming issued a new statement apologizing to Black audiences and the Tourette’s community and saying viewers were let down by decisions that allowed slurs to air.
  • The BBC apologized for airing the racial slur on a two-hour delay, removed the program from iPlayer, and said a fast-tracked Executive Complaints Unit investigation is in progress.
  • BAFTA apologized and pledged a comprehensive review, while John Davidson said he was deeply mortified for the hurt caused but would not apologize for having Tourette syndrome.
  • Critics and viewers denounced the SNL clip for punching down, as Delroy Lindo acknowledged public support at the NAACP Image Awards and charities reported a surge in trolling of people with Tourette’s.