‘Sherlock’ season 4: On Benedict Cumberbatch and controversy

Let’s face it: Controversy is not something you see attached to Benedict Cumberbatch’s name very often. This is probably what makes some of the new stories that are out there right now all the more surprising.

Here is basically what happened. The actor made an appearance earlier this month on “Tavis Smiley,” a show that airs on PBS (which happens to be the same network that broadcasts “Sherlock” in America). During this interview, the actor was asked about the influx of black British actors in entertainment in America, in particular with many feature films. His response was one that spoke about more races in general, but also contained a term that many find to be outdated and offensive:

“I think as long as we pay our subs and our taxes over here when we work camp, I think it’s fair game. I mean, you know, Meryl Streep can come over and play Margaret Thatcher. Why can’t we come over and play in your sand pit, you know? … In all seriousness, I know what you’re saying. I think as far as colored actors go, it gets really difficult in the UK, and I think a lot of my friends have had more opportunities here than in the U.K. and that’s something that needs to change.”

What was interesting is that this interview is almost a week old, but attention has come to it after British organization Show Racism the Red Card lauded his comments, but referred to his incorrect use of terminology as one of the problems that they are hoping to eradicate.

Cumberbatch issued a statement earlier today apologizing for the comments:

“The most shaming aspect of this for me is that I was talking about racial inequality in the performing arts in the UK and the need for rapid improvements in our industry when I used the term. I feel the complete fool I am and while I am sorry to have offended people and to learn from my mistakes in such a public manner, please be assured I have.”

For those curious, Smiley also told USA Today that he believed that his heart was in the right place when he initially made the comments, even if one particular word is getting many of the headlines:

“Sometimes words get in the way, but what was abundantly clear to me, and I trust to viewers who saw the conversation, is that Benedict Cumberbatch is in solidarity with persons of color who are still staggeringly underrepresented in the film and entertainment industry.”

You can watch the full episode here (provided that you are in America) to get the full conversation.

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