John Davidson Apologizes After BAFTA Awards Incident

Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson has expressed his deep mortification following an incident at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards where he involuntarily shouted a racial slur during the presentation by actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Davidson’s outburst occurred as the Sinners stars presented the award for Best Visual Effects.

Incident and Apology

Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome with Coprolalia – a condition characterized by involuntary outbursts of offensive language – was attending the awards ceremony as an executive producer of the BAFTA-nominated film I Swear. The film, which explores the origins and manifestations of Tourette Syndrome, later won Best Actor for Robert Aramayo.

In a statement to the Press Association, Davidson said he was “aware of the distress my tics were causing” and chose to leave the auditorium early in the ceremony. He expressed gratitude to BAFTA and the BBC for their support and understanding, and for the announcement made prior to the broadcast warning the audience about his involuntary tics. He was heartened by the applause that followed this announcement, stating he felt welcomed and understood.

“I can only add that I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” Davidson stated. He reiterated his lifelong commitment to supporting the Tourette’s community and promoting empathy and understanding.

Broadcast and Response

The incident was not edited out of the broadcast, which aired on a two-hour delay in the United Kingdom. The BBC subsequently apologized for the language heard by viewers, explaining that it stemmed from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome and was not intentional. Presenter Alan Cumming also issued an apology during the ceremony.

According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), Tourette syndrome causes people to make sudden, repetitive sounds or movements, and in rare cases, can result in the involuntary use of offensive language. NHS Information on Tourette’s Syndrome While there is no cure, treatment can help manage the tics.

The majority of people with Tourette syndrome do not experience Coprolalia, with prevalence rates ranging from 10-33%, according to the National Library of Medicine. National Library of Medicine on Tourette Syndrome

Aftermath and Reflection

Sources close to Davidson reported that he removed himself from the auditorium but was backstage to congratulate Aramayo on his win. The incident has highlighted the challenges faced by individuals living with Tourette syndrome and the importance of understanding and empathy.