Baftas 2026: BBC apologises after guest with Tourette's shouts racial slur at Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan
BBC World
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 Bafta Film Awards took an unexpected turn when John Davidson, a guest with Tourette's syndrome, shouted the N-word during the ceremony. The incident occurred while actors Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award on stage. The BBC, which aired the event with a two-hour delay, failed to edit out the slur initially, leading to widespread offense. Following criticism, the network issued an apology and removed the footage from BBC iPlayer.
Davidson, whose life story inspired the film *I Swear*, suffers from Tourette's syndrome, which causes involuntary tics including verbal outbursts. During the ceremony, Alan Cumming addressed the situation, explaining that Davidson’s actions were unintentional and part of his condition. However, many viewers and attendees expressed outrage, particularly at the lack of immediate action to address the slur. Jordan and Lindo were visibly affected by the incident, and their peers, including Wendell Pierce and Jamie Foxx, criticized the BBC for not taking stronger steps to apologize.
The event sparked a broader conversation about understanding Tourette's syndrome and the challenges individuals with disabilities face. Advocates emphasized that while tics can be distressing, they are involuntary and require empathy rather than judgment. The incident also highlighted the need for greater awareness of Tourette's in public settings, ensuring that such moments are handled with sensitivity and compassion.
This situation underscores the importance of education and understanding regarding neurological conditions like Tourette's syndrome. It serves as a reminder that media outlets must prioritize respectful coverage, particularly during high-profile events, to avoid perpetuating harm or misunderstanding. The incident at Baftas 2026 is a cautionary tale for the entertainment industry, urging greater awareness and sensitivity in addressing such issues.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026