Benedict Cumberbatch Apologises For Using The Word 'Coloured' To Describe Black Actors

Benedict Cumberbatch has issued an apology after he used the outdated phrase ‘coloured’ to described black actors during a recent interview.

The Oscar-nominated ‘Imitation Game’ star was appearing on the PBS network in the US when he made the gaffe, but was quickly chastised for it on social media.

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Speaking to host Tavis Smiley yesterday, he was broaching the hotly-debated diversity controversy surrounding this year’s Oscar nominations.

“I think as far as coloured actors go, it gets really different in the UK, and a lot of my friends have had more opportunities here [in the US] than in the UK, and that’s something that needs to change,” he said.

“Something’s gone wrong, we’re not representative enough in our culture of different races and that really does need to step up a pace.”

Despite his best intentions, it was the phrase ‘coloured’ that stuck out, with many castigating him for using the term.

“I’m devastated to have caused offence by using this outmoded terminology. I offer my sincere apologies,” he said later.

“I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done.”

Still, many aired their views on the matter:

Others defended the actor, however:

This year’s Oscar nominations have been dogged by controversy that they have failed to properly represent diversity in the movie business.

A spokesperson for Show Racism The Red Card told the Independent: “Benedict Cumberbatch has highlighted a very important issue within the entertainment industry and within society.

“Appropriate terminology differs from country to country; for example, we know that in some countries the term ‘coloured’ is still widely used, and that in the US the term ‘people of colour’ is quite common.

“During our work with young people in schools throughout England, we discuss appropriate language to use when describing people of different skin colours and backgrounds and explain why the term ‘coloured’ is no longer the best way to describe someone.”

Image credits: PA/Twitter

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