Chris Cuomo, the renowned TV presenter and journalist, has recently faced significant backlash for what appeared to be him poking fun at someone with Tourettes Syndrome during a live interview. However, Cuomo has since responded to accusations of inappropriate behavior, shedding light on the importance of raising awareness and understanding the challenges faced by individuals with neurological disorders.
The incident occurred when Cuomo interviewed Baylen Dupree, a TikTok star who has Tourettes Syndrome, on NewsNation’s ‘Cuomo’ segment. The purpose of the interview was to educate the audience about the highs and lows of the condition. Tourettes Syndrome causes individuals to experience involuntary sounds, sporadic movements, and restless tics, such as blinking, jerking of the head/arms, and shouting. In some cases, involuntary cursing or the urge to blurt out obscenities can also be prominent symptoms.
During the uncensored interview, Dupree involuntarily cursed at Cuomo, calling him names and expressing her frustration. Cuomo, known for his serious demeanor, seemingly struggled to contain his amusement and burst into laughter. This interaction sparked controversy and led to accusations of insensitivity towards Dupree’s condition.
However, it is important to remember the gravity and challenges associated with Tourettes Syndrome. Individuals like Dupree often face judgment and stigma due to their unusual tics. Cuomo recognized this reality and responded to the backlash by emphasizing the need to fight the societal stigma surrounding the disorder.
In his statement addressing the incident, Cuomo expressed his support for Dupree and her decision to use TikTok as a platform to combat the stigma. He commended her for not allowing others’ negative perceptions to define her and highlighted the fact that she now has 9 million followers, earning recognition and empowerment through her content.
Cuomo also acknowledged that Dupree’s tics consist of repeated phrases, which can sometimes be vulgar. He praised her for finding purpose in her pain and lauded the coverage her story has garnered. By sharing her journey, she has shed light on the challenges faced by those with Tourettes Syndrome and challenged the negative stereotypes often associated with the disorder.
Furthermore, Cuomo addressed the distorted narrative surrounding his laughter during the interview. He dismissed claims that he was mocking Dupree and argued that being mean sells, perpetuating a cycle of negativity. He also acknowledged that many of the things she said about him were true, highlighting the inclination towards being nasty.
This incident serves as a reminder of the significance of raising awareness and fighting the stigma surrounding medical conditions like Tourettes Syndrome. Through honest and respectful conversations, we can foster greater empathy and understanding for those who face unique challenges.
