Saturday Night Live criticised by charity for ‘hurtful’ Tourette’s sketch

US comedian and Black-ish actor Deon Cole has also received criticism for a joke he made while hosting the NAACP Image Awards, which honour black stars, on Saturday.

During a mock prayer in his introduction, in which he also took aim at several celebrities, Cole said: “If there are any white men out here in the audience, Lord, with Tourette’s, I advise you to tell them they’d better read the room tonight, Lord.

“It might not go the way they thinketh. Whatever medicine they’re on, they’d better double up on it.”

Broadcaster Piers Morgan was among those who didn’t find it amusing. “Hollywood continuing to mock John Davidson over his Tourette’s condition is one of the most despicable things I’ve witnessed in a long time,” he wrote, external.

“Shame on @deoncole and all those in the audience who laughed at his vile ‘jokes’.”

Many fans, including fellow actor Jamie Foxx, defended Cole online.

“Brilliant!! You funny af all the time!!!” Foxx posted, external with a clip of Cole’s monologue.

Cole replied: “Appreciate u king! People got to learn how to take a joke. It’s all in fun.”

BBC News has asked Cole for a response.

Lindo acknowledged the incident at the event, telling the audience: “We appreciate the support and love we have been shown in the aftermath of what happened last weekend.

“It’s a classic case of something that could’ve been very negative becoming very positive,” he said from the stage.

“Thank you so much for the support.”