The 2026 EE Bafta Film Awards were overshadowed by controversy after a racial slur was heard during Sunday’s ceremony in London.
The word was shouted while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage presenting an award. Both actors star in the film Sinners.
Organizers later confirmed the outburst came from John Davidson, a Tourette syndrome campaigner attending the event. They said the word was an involuntary vocal tic linked to his medical condition.
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Bafta and BBC Issue Apologies
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) apologized for the incident, calling the language “offensive” and acknowledging the pain it may have caused.
Bafta also thanked Jordan and Lindo for their “dignity and professionalism” during the moment.
The BBC, which broadcast the ceremony, said some viewers may have heard “strong and offensive language.” The broadcaster admitted the slur was not edited out before airing and later removed the program from its iPlayer service to make corrections.
Davidson Says He Is “Deeply Mortified”
In a statement, Davidson said he was “deeply mortified” if anyone believed the tic was intentional or reflected his personal beliefs.
He explained that his verbal outbursts were involuntary symptoms of Tourette syndrome. Davidson added that he chose to leave the ceremony early because he was aware his tics were causing distress.
Davidson has long campaigned to raise awareness about Tourette syndrome and previously inspired the Bafta-nominated film I Swear.
Understanding Tourette Syndrome
Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that causes sudden, involuntary movements or sounds known as tics.
In some cases, people experience coprolalia — involuntary swearing or socially inappropriate words. Medical experts say these tics are not intentional and do not reflect a person’s thoughts or beliefs.
Tourette’s Action, a UK charity, urged the public to show understanding. “Tics are involuntary. They are not a reflection of a person’s character,” the organization said.
Mixed Reactions
The incident sparked debate online and among public figures. Some criticized the response, saying a stronger apology was needed. Others emphasized the importance of understanding neurological conditions.
During the ceremony, host Alan Cumming reminded the audience that Tourette’s is a disability and that such tics are beyond the person’s control.
Despite the controversy, I Swear won two Bafta awards, including Best Actor for Robert Aramayo, who portrays Davidson.
The incident has opened a wider conversation about accountability, inclusion, and public understanding of medical conditions in high-profile settings.
