SNL Criticised for ‘Hurtful’ Tourette’s Sketch After BAFTAs Controversy

Published: 3 March 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

“Saturday Night Live” (SNL) is facing widespread criticism after releasing a sketch that many viewed as mocking Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition that causes involuntary tics. The comedy show’s segment was inspired by a recent incident at the 2026 British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), where Scottish campaigner John Davidson, who has Tourette’s, involuntarily uttered a racial slur while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting onstage. The moment sparked controversy after the BBC broadcast the footage, leading to public debate over how involuntary symptoms of the condition are reported.

SNL’s sketch, which was cut from the live NBC broadcast due to time constraints but later posted online, featured cast members impersonating controversial celebrities including Mel Gibson, J.K. Rowling, Bill Cosby, Kanye West and Armie Hammer. In exaggerated fashion, these characters claimed they, too, had Tourette’s to explain or excuse past offensive behaviours.

Leading disability rights charity Tourettes Action condemned the sketch as “horrific” and “not acceptable,” arguing that it trivialises a real medical condition and misrepresents people living with Tourette’s. CEO Emma McNally warned that such portrayals can contribute to stigma, increase harassment and undo years of advocacy work aiming to improve understanding of the syndrome. Critics also noted that the comedy segment blurred the lines between satire and insensitive mockery, failing to clearly target public figures’ behaviour rather than the condition itself.

Social media and public figures expressed mixed reactions, with several commentators describing the skit as “shameful” and “punching down” at a marginalised group. Others argued that the comedic intent was to satirise opportunistic excuses by celebrities, not to deride the condition, but this interpretation did not resonate with many in the Tourette’s community. The controversy has reignited broader discussions about how disability is depicted in comedy and the responsibilities of high‑profile entertainment platforms.

Read More At>>