Home / Arts and Entertainment / Tourette's Charity Slams SNL For Mocking Disability
Tourette's Charity Slams SNL For Mocking Disability
2 Mar
Summary
- Tourette's Action charity condemns SNL sketch for mocking disability.
- The sketch, featuring cast impersonating controversial figures, was cut from broadcast.
- Charity CEO states mocking Tourette's is unacceptable and deeply harmful.
A charity dedicated to supporting individuals with Tourette's syndrome has issued a stern condemnation of a recent "Saturday Night Live" sketch that satirized the condition. Tourette's Action stated that mocking any disability is unacceptable, drawing a parallel to how other conditions would not be treated with such disrespect. The organization highlighted that Tourette's is a complex neurological condition, not a joke or a personality trait, and can be profoundly debilitating.
The sketch, which depicted cast members impersonating celebrities like Bill Cosby and Mel Gibson, attributing controversial statements or actions to Tourette's syndrome, was reportedly cut from the live broadcast of the Feb. 28 episode. However, it gained significant traction after being shared on YouTube. This incident follows recent difficulties faced by the Tourette's community, including increased online trolling and misinformation, compounded by an earlier event involving Tourette's campaigner John Davidson at the BAFTA Film Awards.
Tourette's Action emphasized that videos and posts sensationalizing tics can undo years of progress in raising awareness and lead to fear, shame, and isolation for individuals with the condition. The charity called for compassion, accurate information, and education, urging content creators and the public to consider the impact of their words and shares on those living with Tourette's.
