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SNL Faces Condemnation Over Tourette’s Sketch Tied to BAFTAs Slur

A leading Tourette’s charity denounces the sketch as harmful, urging education over ridicule.

Overview

  • Saturday Night Live posted a cut-for-time sketch online in which cast members portray controversial figures who claim Tourette’s to excuse past behavior, including a tag referencing the BAFTAs incident.
  • Tourette’s Action called the video “unacceptable,” warning it fuels stigma and harassment and saying a single clip can undo years of awareness work.
  • John Davidson, the Tourette’s campaigner whose involuntary slur at the BAFTAs prompted the discourse, said he is sorry for any pain caused but will not apologize for having the condition.
  • BAFTA and the BBC apologized for airing the slur during a delayed broadcast; the BBC removed it from iPlayer and says a fast-tracked review is underway as BAFTA pledges a comprehensive review.
  • BAFTAs host Alan Cumming issued a new apology describing the broadcast as a “trauma triggering shitshow,” while Delroy Lindo publicly thanked supporters at the NAACP Image Awards.