David Oyelowo: Benedict Cumberbatch is not racist

LONDON — Actor David Oyelowo has defended Benedict Cumberbatch for using the word “coloured”, saying it is “ridiculous” to label him a racist. Cumberbatch issued a public apology after being criticised for using the term in an interview during a discussion about opportunities for black actors in the film industry.

Speaking at the British premiere of Selma, Oyelowo said he could not believe the fuss Cumberbatch’s comment had caused. “I reached out to him in support and I said I think it’s ridiculous,” he told BBC Radio 1’s Newsbeat. “When you look at what he was actually saying, it’s clear that he’s a huge supporter of black performers. To attack him for a term, as opposed to what he was actually saying, I think is very disingenuous and is indicative of the age we live in where people are looking for soundbites as opposed to substance.”

Oyelowo said Hollywood does have a problem with diversity, but he is taking a positive approach. “We’re talking about diversity again and that’s because there isn’t enough of it,” he elaborated. “Excellence is the best weapon against prejudice. I intend to be part of the solution and not the problem. You’ve just got to keep on banging out good performances ... To get to the point whereby myself and Ryan Gosling are going up for the same role is going to be great.”

Cumberbatch had made the remark on the PBS talk show Tavis Smiley, but later apologised, saying: “I’m devastated to have caused offence by using this outmoded terminology. I offer my sincere apologies. I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done.” THE DAILY TELEGRAPH