Chris Cuomo addresses criticism of 'laughing' while interviewing TikToker with Tourette's Syndrome

NEW YOR CITY, NEW YORK: Baylen Dupree, a TikToker battling Tourette's Syndrome, recently gained widespread praise on the internet for her humorous interview with NewsNation's Chris Cuomo, who was criticized for 'laughing' during the conversation.

His on-air response to her tics has ignited a wave of online criticism.

The journalist, aged 53, however, defended his recent interview with the influencer, who has expressed aspirations of becoming a physical therapist. 

The much-talked-about interview took place on Tuesday, December 12, when Dupree, aged 21, was featured as a guest on the NewsNation anchor's primetime show 'CUOMO'.

The conversation focused on her swift ascent to social media prominence, which was sparked by her decision to document her life with Tourette's, a condition that reportedly manifests as a specific symptom in only about 10% of those affected.

Cuomos' alleged laughter sparks criticism

In the segment hosted by Cuomo, where he described Dupree's social media journey as "a beautiful demonstration of turning pain into purpose," he chuckled a few times allegedly in reaction to the TikToker's more explicit tics.

A snippet of their interaction rapidly attracted criticism, with detractors alleging that the journalist was mocking Dupree.

"Sorry this grown man is so inappropriate," said a user on TikToker's post. "You are incredible and inspiring in so many ways. Please continue to completely be your authentic self."

"Did he just straight up say he thinks you’re acting? 😮", reacted another.

A third follower added, "He’s a joke. Him laughing is such an a hole move. And he admits he thinks you’re acting. Like why have you on then. He’s not worthy of your time."

"The fact that he laughing is weird," stated another. 

"Chris Cuomo is totally unprofessional here. The PROFESSIONAL thing to do is to watch a bunch of video, acclimate yourself to Tourette’s, Baylen in particular, and be better. What a jag off," penned one user. 

Chris Cuomo addresses criticism over 'laughing'

On Wednesday, December 13, the 53-year-old Cuomo took some time during his broadcast to respond to the backlash he’s faced.

"Last night, we did a story. It was a little dicey, people weren't sure we could do it because there was going to be a lot of cursing, and [executive producer Alexandra Cohen] and I didn't give a damn," Cuomo stated.

"Why? Baylen Dupree has gone viral — and for good reason. We love giving a platform for her to fight the stigma of having Tourette syndrome."

In response to the negative backlash from their interview, including a headline that labeled Cuomo as "mean" for laughing at Dupree, Cuomo stated, "Mean is clickbait."

He added, "And taking a bite out of my behind is what makes them money. But it's also what feeds the instinct to be nasty in the first place."

He also countered a headline that insinuated Dupree lashed out at him.

"The kid didn't come on my show to curse at me. It's a tic, it's not a quote. It's not intentional," Cuomo stated. 

"And by the way, most of what she said about me, true... Being nasty sells. And so people are nasty, and they're nasty even when they got no damn right to be so. Baylen Dupree is living her life in opposition of that, and I love it."

Cuomo shared a link to Dupree’s TikTok on X, penning, "This is about respecting and laughing with, not at people...tics from Tourette do not define someone...i love that she is popular and proving that she can do it all! Great things to come!"

Public response to Cuomo's defense against criticism

Cuomo's response to the backlash over his interview laughter sparked swift online reaction.

A user tweeted, "You were probably the most real I’ve seen you! You made her smile too."

Another user said, "I hated most of your stuff until this one. I've followed her for a very long time. You proved yourself a human. Thanks."

"You did great Chris. Thanks for giving her a platform. She’s entertaining us and making us aware," a user said. 

Others who are still not convinced, claimed, "You literally said to her face you "think she's faking it"

One person penned, "Why did you laugh at her disability #Fredo it wasn’t cool or could you just not control yourself again…again ?"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.