BAFTAs 2026 Outburst: What Tourette’s Tics Feel Like

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by Christina Caron and Simar Bajaj

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The 2026 BAFTAs saw an unexpected moment of tension when John Davidson, an audience member with Tourette’s syndrome, involuntarily shouted a racist slur during the ceremony. The incident occurred as Black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award, causing distress among attendees. Davidson later issued a statement apologizing for the disturbance caused by his tics, explaining that they were unintentional and that he left early to minimize further discomfort. Emauni Crawley, a 23-year-old behavioral health coach with Tourette’s, shared her own struggles with severe verbal tics, which often result in saying inappropriate or offensive words. She explained how these tics feel uncontrollable, likening them to an urge that cannot be ignored. Despite the involuntary nature of such outbursts, Crawley emphasized that the hurt caused by offensive language remains significant, especially for those targeted. The incident at the BAFTAs highlights the challenges individuals with Tourette’s face in managing their symptoms while navigating social interactions. Verbal or physical tics can lead to misunderstandings or emotional distress, as seen when Davidson’s outburst overshadowed the moment of celebration for Jordan and Lindo. The event sparked conversations about how society can better accommodate those with Tourette’s while acknowledging the impact of such moments on others. Understanding the complexity of Tourette’s syndrome is crucial for fostering empathy and creating inclusive environments. While tics are involuntary, they can still cause harm, as seen in the BAFTAs incident. This underscores the importance of education and compassion in addressing both the challenges faced by individuals with Tourette’s and the broader implications of their actions. The story also sheds light on the personal struggles of those living with Tourette’s, such as Crawley, who faces daily challenges but remains aware of the pain

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/25/2026