LONDON — The British Academy Film Awards on Sunday were overshadowed by controversy after Scottish Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson involuntarily yelled a racial slur during the live ceremony, drawing widespread criticism from entertainment figures, advocacy groups and viewers. The incident occurred as actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the award for Best Special Visual Effects at the 79th BAFTAs on Feb. 22, according to reports.
Davidson, known for his decades-long work raising awareness of Tourette syndrome and for being the subject of the 2025 biographical film I Swear, was introduced to the audience prior to the event with a warning that he might vocalize involuntary tics, which can include strong language. During the presentation, the slur was clearly audible in the auditorium and later on the BBC’s delayed broadcast, prompting immediate social media reaction and condemnation from high-profile entertainers.
Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience during the ceremony, explaining that the outbursts were tied to Davidson’s neurological condition, which can cause sudden vocal and motor tics, and expressing regret for any offense caused. The BBC subsequently apologised for failing to edit the offensive language out of its tape-delayed broadcast and removed the programme from its iPlayer platform pending re-editing.
The response on social media and within the entertainment community has been polarised. Jamie Foxx described the use of the slur as “unacceptable,” while Wendell Pierce criticised what he saw as an insufficient immediate apology directed at Jordan and Lindo. Journalist Jemele Hill and designer Hannah Beachler also weighed in, condemning the incident and the perceived handling of the situation by organisers and broadcasters.
Tourettes Action, a UK charity, defended Davidson’s broader advocacy work and reiterated that vocal tics associated with Tourette syndrome are involuntary and not reflective of personal beliefs or intent, while acknowledging that such language can cause hurt.
The film I Swear, which dramatizes Davidson’s life and which earned Best Actor for Robert Aramayo and other nominations at the BAFTAs, was otherwise celebrated during the ceremony. Aramayo, in his acceptance speech, called for greater understanding and support for individuals living with Tourette syndrome.
The incident has sparked broader discussion around how awards shows and broadcasters handle disabilities that can manifest in offensive language and how they balance awareness with sensitivity to audiences and participants.
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Hannah Price is a digital journalist who covers breaking news, global events, and trending stories with accuracy and speed. She has previously contributed to several online magazines and has built a reputation for verifying facts before publishing. Hannah believes in responsible reporting and aims to present stories in a way that readers can trust.
