John Davidson, a Tourette’s campaigner who shouted a racial slur during the BAFTAs as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award, has released another statement.
The incident took place at the ceremony in London just over a week ago. Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome — a condition that can cause involuntary, sudden and repetitive sounds or movements known as tics — later left the event early after experiencing an episode.
While Jordan and Lindo were on stage, Davidson could be heard shouting the N word, which was captured on camera. Other outbursts were also heard during the broadcast, including ‘f*ck you’ and ‘shut the f*ck up’.
After the ceremony, Davidson addressed what happened and said he was ‘deeply mortified’ by the events that unfolded.
Now, he has posted on Facebook again, explaining that he will not be apologizing ‘for having’ Tourette’s syndrome, though he acknowledged the impact the moment may have had on others.
He wrote: “I’ve been waiting all week until the dust settles after the weekend at the BAFTAs in London. I would like to thank each and every one of you who have shown love, support and solidarity towards myself and the rest of the Tourette’s Community.
“Your kind words and support have got me through a very difficult week.
“Whilst I will never apologize for having Tourette syndrome, I will apologize for any pain, upset and misunderstanding that it may create.”
Davidson said the last week had been ‘tough’ and added that the situation has reinforced how much more public understanding is needed for what he described as a widely misunderstood condition.
“There is still a long way to go and I will keep on keeping on until this is achieved,” the statement concluded.
Following the disruption, host Alan Cumming addressed the audience from the stage with an apology.
The presenter said: “”You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience.
“Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.
“Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologize if you are offended tonight.”
In an earlier statement, Davidson also explained that he chose to leave the venue because he was ‘aware of the distress my tics were causing’.
He added in a statement provided to Deadline: “I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness, and understanding from others, and I will continue to do so.”