BAFTA Apologizes to Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo After Disruptive Incident
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has issued a formal apology to actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo following a disruptive incident during the 2026 British Academy Film Awards ceremony. The incident involved an attendee shouting a racial slur while Jordan and Lindo were onstage presenting an award.
Incident Details
During the pre-recorded broadcast of the awards ceremony, John Davidson, an attendee, involuntarily shouted the n-word while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the “Best Visual Effects” award. BAFTA acknowledged that Davidson’s outburst was due to Tourette syndrome, which causes involuntary verbal tics [1]. The organization stated that such tics are not reflective of an individual’s beliefs and are not intentional.
BAFTA’s Response
BAFTA issued a public apology to Jordan, Lindo, and all those impacted by the incident. The organization took “full responsibility” for the situation and acknowledged that the language used “fell far short of the values we stand for” [1]. BAFTA also thanked Jordan and Lindo for their “incredible dignity and professionalism” in continuing to present the award despite the disruption.
The organization has launched an internal review and is reviewing event protocols and staff training to prevent similar incidents in the future. BAFTA also pledged to consult with diversity advisors and maintain a commitment to inclusion [1].
Statements from Actors and Attendee
Delroy Lindo stated that he and Michael B. Jordan “did what [they] had to do” in the moment, but expressed a desire for a direct response from BAFTA following the incident [1]. An apology was received by the actors approximately half a day later.
John Davidson voluntarily left the auditorium to watch the remainder of the ceremony from a separate location. He expressed gratitude for the support and understanding he received and reiterated that his tics are involuntary [1]. He also stated he was deeply mortified if his tics were considered intentional or carried any meaning.
Recent Recognition for Jordan and Lindo
The incident occurred shortly after both actors were celebrated for their work. Michael B. Jordan was honored with the Outstanding Performer of the Year award at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 12, 2026 [2], and was praised for his performance in “Sinners.” Delroy Lindo presented the award to Jordan [2]. Ryan Coogler also became the first Black person to win the BAFTA Award for best original screenplay, and Wunmi Mosaku won the best supporting actress award [1].