Saturday Night Live has come under fire for a sketch referencing last month’s BAFTA incident involving John Davidson, a campaigner with Tourette’s syndrome, which has been condemned by leading charities and entertainers.
The skit, titled *“Tourette’s”*, featured celebrity impersonations—including J.K. Rowling, Mel Gibson, Armie Hammer, Louis C.K., and Bill Cosby—claiming they had Tourette’s, ostensibly to explain controversial past behaviour. In the sketch, Mel Gibson, portrayed by Andrew Dismukes, quipped: “I too suffer from Tourette’s, which explains a lot of the things I’ve said or yelled through the years.”
Tourettes Action CEO Emma McNally denounced the sketch as “NOT ACCEPTABLE,” emphasising that mocking a neurological condition is never appropriate. She described the disorder as “complex, debilitating and often isolating,” and warned that misrepresenting tics can undo years of progress in raising awareness.
Other critics joined in. Comedian Al Murray called the sketch “disgusting,” while actor James Dreyfus described it as “cringeworthy and prejudiced.” Piers Morgan condemned Hollywood for continuing to mock Davidson over his condition.
Davidson thanked supporters over the weekend, saying he would not apologise for having Tourette’s, but regretted any distress caused. He added: “This past week has reminded me that, despite progress, there is still a long way to go in raising awareness—and I will keep on keeping on.”
SNL has yet to respond to the criticism.
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