BAFTA Apologizes After Tourette's Campaigner’s Involuntary Slur Disrupts 2026 Ceremony

The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards were briefly disrupted when John Davidson, a nominee with Tourette's syndrome, involuntarily shouted offensive words, including a racial slur, during the live ceremony. Host Alan Cumming addressed the interruptions, explaining the tics were involuntary and apologized for any offense. BAFTA and the BBC issued formal apologies to actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, who were presenting at the time, and acknowledged the distress caused. Davidson expressed remorse and left the venue early. The incident sparked debate on Tourette's awareness and broadcast editing.