SNL Sketch About Racial Slurs Raises Concerns from Tourette’s Charity
SNL Sketch Draws Criticism from Tourette’s Charity
A recent skit on Saturday Night Live mocking the racial slur incident at this year’s BAFTA Film Awards has sparked significant backlash, particularly from a prominent Tourette’s syndrome charity.
Titled “Tourette’s,” the sketch features celebrities such as J.K. Rowling, Mel Gibson, Armie Hammer, Louis C.K., and Bill Cosby, who humorously claim that their past problematic comments can be attributed to Tourette’s syndrome. In one notable moment, actor Andrew Dismukes portrays Mel Gibson, who states, “I’m Mel Gibson, and as I probably should have pointed out decades ago, I too suffer from Tourette’s, which explains a lot of the things I’ve said or yelled through the years.”
The skit follows cast member Pete Davidson, who has openly supported others with Tourette’s, as he inadvertently shouts the N-word during the BAFTA Film Awards last month.
Emma McNally, CEO of Tourettes Action, criticized the sketch, stating, “Mocking a disability is never acceptable.” She emphasized, “Tourette’s is a complex neurological condition, of which there is no cure. It is not a joke. It is not a personality trait. It is not a source of entertainment.” McNally voiced concerns about the harmful narrative surrounding tics, explaining, “Videos and posts that deliberately misrepresent or sensationalise tics set us back years.”
In her statement, McNally expressed dismay at the trolling and harassment faced by members of the Tourette’s community in recent days, highlighting the serious emotional toll it can take. “No one should ever be treated that way,” she added.
Following the backlash, a spokesperson from Saturday Night Live was approached for comment. Other comedians and public figures also weighed in on the controversy. British comedian Al Murray labeled the sketch as “disgusting,” while actor James Dreyfus criticized the sketch as revealing a lack of understanding among its creators.
Additionally, Deon Cole, host of the NAACP Image Awards, has faced criticism for his remarks about Davidson, which some audiences found inappropriate. Piers Morgan publicly condemned Hollywood’s ongoing mockery of Davidson, describing it as “one of the most despicable things I’ve witnessed in a long time.”
In response to the controversy, Davidson thanked the Tourette’s community on Facebook, acknowledging the pain and misunderstanding that can arise from his condition. He stated, “I will keep on keeping on until this is achieved,” reinforcing his commitment to raising awareness.
McNally’s complete statement addresses the urgent need for compassion and accurate information about Tourette’s, calling for a united effort in educating the public rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes. She encouraged kindness and understanding, reminding everyone that “behind every tic is a person, a family, a life.”
