BAFTA, BBC Aired N-Word. Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo Owed Apology

Variety

by Clayton Davis

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The 79th BAFTA Film Awards faced significant criticism after the N-word was accidentally aired during a live broadcast due to John Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome. Davidson’s involuntary outburst occurred while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage, causing discomfort for many viewers. Despite being aware of Davidson’s condition, neither BAFTA nor BBC warned attendees or provided context about his tics. This lapse in judgment led to widespread outrage, as the N-word is deeply tied to historical racism and violence, making its unfiltered broadcast particularly jarring. The incident was exacerbated by how it was handled post-broadcast. While other controversial remarks, such as Akinola Davies Jr.’s “Free Palestine” or Paul Thomas Anderson’s edited speech, were either censored or stripped of context, the N-word was allowed to circulate freely online, fueling further outrage. BAFTA and BBC issued apologies, acknowledging the offensive language was unintentional and stemming from Davidson’s Tourette-related tics. However, critics argue that this explanation does not excuse the lack of preparedness or the failure to manage the situation with sensitivity. The event raises important questions about how disabilities are addressed in public spaces, particularly when they involve involuntary outbursts like coprolalia. While Davidson’s condition is a neurological issue beyond his control, the broadcasters’ handling of the situation highlighted a lack of education and empathy. Parents of children with Tourette syndrome often fear such moments, which can deepen feelings of isolation and otherness for both their kids and themselves. This incident also underscores the importance of clear communication and sensitivity in entertainment broadcasts. The failure to warn attendees about Davidson’s condition contributed to the discomfort felt by many, including Black artists who are particularly sensitive to the N-word’s historical and ongoing impact. As the entertainment industry continues to prioritize inclusion and representation, such events serve as a reminder of the need for better protocols when disabilities intersect with public spaces. Ultimately, this situation is a cautionary tale about the consequences of inadequate preparation and insensitivity in high-profile broadcasts. While apologies were made, they do little to address the broader issues of education, empathy, and responsibility that must be addressed moving forward.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/23/2026