A Tourette syndrome charity has defended an activist after he shouted a racial slur at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo at the BAFTAs.
The disruption happened as Sinners stars Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage at London’s Royal Festival Hall on Sunday to present the award for special visual effects.
Campaigner John Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome, was heard shouting the N word while the pair were presenting. He could also be heard making other outbursts during the ceremony, including “f*ck you” and “shut the f*ck up”.
Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that can cause sudden, repeated sounds or movements. In some cases, it can involve involuntary use of inappropriate or offensive words. The NHS notes there is no cure, but treatment and support can help people manage tics.
After the incident, the charity Tourettes Action issued a statement backing Davidson, saying it was “incredibly proud” of him and of the team behind I Swear, a film based on his life and his experience of developing Tourette syndrome at age 12. The film received five nominations at this year’s BAFTAs.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “We also want to address the negative comments that have surfaced following John’s involuntary vocal tics during the ceremony.
“We deeply understand that these words can cause hurt but, at the same time, it is vital that the public understands a fundamental truth about Tourette syndrome, tics are involuntary. They are not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions or character.
“People with Tourette’s can say words or phrases they do not mean, do not endorse and feel great distress about afterwards.
“These symptoms are neurological, not intentional, and they are something John – like many others with Tourette’s – lives with every single day.”
The charity added that the “backlash” that followed was “deeply saddening”, and said Davidson chose to leave the event early.
In the aftermath, the BAFTA Film Awards were removed from BBC iPlayer.
A BBC spokesperson said: “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the Bafta Film Awards 2026.
“This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome and was not intentional. We apologise for any offence caused by the language heard.”
On the night, presenter Alan Cumming also addressed the language during the broadcast and offered an apology to viewers.
He said: “You may have heard some strong and offensive language tonight. If you have seen the film I Swear, you will know that film is about the experience of a person with Tourette syndrome.
“Tourette syndrome is a disability and the tics you have heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette syndrome has no control over their language. We apologise if you were offended.”