BAFTA Apologizes “Unreservedly” to Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo After Tourette’s Outburst: “We Want to Acknowledge the Harm This Has Caused”

Hollywood Reporter

by Lily Ford

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

BAFTA has issued an unreserved apology after a guest with Tourette’s syndrome, John Davidson, shouted a racial slur during the Film Awards ceremony. The incident occurred while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the award for best visual effects. BAFTA acknowledged the trauma caused by the offensive language and apologized to all those impacted, including the两位 presenters and Davidson himself. The organization emphasized that such outbursts are involuntary and unrelated to an individual’s beliefs or intentions. Davidson, a Tourette’s campaigner and executive producer of the BAFTA-nominated film *I Swear*, left the auditorium midway through the ceremony due to his condition. BAFTA had warned attendees about potential disruptions caused by his tics but failed to prevent the offensive slur from being broadcast. The BBC later apologized for not cutting the racial slur from its delayed coverage. Despite the backlash, Tourette’s Action defended Davidson, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals with the condition and praising his efforts to raise awareness. The incident sparked widespread online criticism, particularly regarding the media’s portrayal of Tourette’s syndrome. BAFTA took full responsibility for creating an uncomfortable environment and thanked Davidson for his dignity in handling the situation. The organization also acknowledged the importance of inclusion and stated that it takes measures to ensure the well-being of all guests. This事件 highlights the need for greater understanding of neurological conditions and the importance of fostering inclusive spaces in entertainment events. The fallout from the incident underscores the delicate balance between raising awareness about Tourette’s syndrome and addressing the hurt caused by such outbursts. While Davidson’s work has been praised, the media’s focus on his condition has led to both support and scrutiny. BAFTA’s response demonstrates the challenges of managing public events with individuals who have complex medical needs. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, education, and improved communication strategies in the entertainment industry. For readers interested in entertainment news, this story highlights the intersection of neurological conditions, public behavior, and media

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/23/2026