Hannah Beachler Says BAFTAs Apology Over N-Word Slur 'Made It Worse'

Variety

by K.J. Yossman

February 23, 2026

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Hannah Beachler, production designer for *Sinners* and a BAFTA nominee, expressed frustration over how the organization handled an incident during the ceremony where John Davidson, who has Tourette’s Syndrome, shouted the n-word three times, including at Beachler and a Black woman. Beachler criticized Alan Cumming’s “throw-away apology” as insufficient and hurtful, stating it made the situation worse. She emphasized that while she understands the complexity of the situation, the lack of meaningful acknowledgment from BAFTA left her失望. Davidson, whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated biopic *I Swear*, experienced involuntary outbursts due to his condition. Despite prior warnings from a floor manager about his Tourette’s Syndrome and potential disruptions, the audience was unprepared for the offensive language. Cumming addressed the issue twice during the ceremony, first explaining that Davidson’s behavior was involuntary and later apologizing if anyone was offended. However, Beachler felt these apologies were inadequate, as they minimized the gravity of the slur and its impact on those targeted. The incident occurred despite a two-hour delay in the broadcast, which did not cut out the offensive remarks. *I Swear* went on to win several awards, including Best Leading Actor for Robert Aramayo, who portrayed Davidson. The controversy highlights the challenges of balancing

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Originally published on Variety on 2/23/2026