Google says sorry for BAFTA news alert; that said: See more on …
Times of India
by TOI TECH DESKFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Google has issued a formal apology after one of its news notifications included a racial slur in an alert related to the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs). The incident occurred during the awards ceremony when an audience member with Tourette syndrome involuntarily shouted the N-word while on stage with actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Google confirmed that only a small number of users received the offensive notification, which was caused by a system error in its push alert preview rather than AI generation. The company removed the offensive content quickly and pledged to prevent such mistakes in the future.
The incident occurred during Sunday’s (February 22) BAFTAs, where an attendee with Tourette syndrome, John Davidson, whose life inspired the film *I Swear*, experienced an involuntary outburst. Davidson expressed deep regret if anyone misinterpreted his condition as intentional or meaningful. The article highlights that only about 10% of individuals with Tourette syndrome experience coprolalia, which involves involuntary obscenity.
Both BAFTA and BBC have faced criticism for their handling of the situation. The ceremony was aired on a two-hour tape delay, providing ample time to edit out the offensive language but failing to do so. BAFTA issued a statement taking full responsibility, apologizing for putting guests in a difficult position and vowing to prioritize inclusion and storytelling as conduits for compassion.
This incident underscores broader concerns about technology’s role in content filtering and the importance of sensitivity in live events. Google’s mistake highlights potential flaws in its safety filters and system processes, emphasizing the need for rigorous oversight in AI-driven systems. The controversy also raises questions about the ethical handling of sensitive moments during public broadcasts, particularly when involving individuals with disabilities. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a respectful and inclusive environment in media and technology.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026