Freddie Flintoff, the former England cricketer, is set to front a new two-part ITV series titled Freddie Flintoff: Understanding Tourette's. The show comes after his serious accident while filming Top Gear in 2022, which left him with broken ribs and facial injuries.
Deeply Personal Connection
Flintoff, who struggled with isolation after his crash, says the thought of young people with Tourette syndrome facing stigma "breaks my heart." He stated, "After my accident, I wouldn't leave my own house, and that's a feeling I would never want anyone, let alone a kid, to go through."
Inspired by BAFTA-Winning Film
The series draws inspiration from the BAFTA-winning film I Swear, which highlights the challenges of living with Tourette's. Flintoff aims to tackle misconceptions and stigma, especially after a controversial incident at the BAFTA Film Awards where a man with Tourette's involuntarily shouted a racist term.
Flintoff commented, "The events at the BAFTA Film Awards and the online discourse that followed only emphasised how much stigma is still out there. If there is any way I can help those affected, I will do so."
Voices of Support
Emma McNally, CEO of Tourettes Action, expressed enthusiasm: "We're looking forward to working with Freddie and ITV to ensure the Tourette's community's voices are heard authentically. This series has the potential to help all members feel seen and validated."
Katie Rawcliffe, ITV's director of entertainment, added, "We are incredibly proud to be working with Freddie Flintoff and Tourettes Action to bring this compelling programme to viewers."
Freddie Flintoff: Understanding Tourette's will air on ITV.
