Delroy Lindo Speaks Out on BAFTA Tourette's Incident at NAACP Image Awards

The actor says the controversy has 'become positive' as the awards show offered support for him and Michael B. Jordan.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:07am

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At the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, actor Delroy Lindo addressed the controversy that occurred at the previous week's BAFTA Awards, where a guest with Tourette Syndrome shouted a racial slur while Lindo and Michael B. Jordan were presenting. Lindo expressed appreciation for the 'support and love' they have received, calling it a 'classic case of something that could be very negative becoming very positive'.

Why it matters

The BAFTA incident sparked widespread criticism and discussion around inclusivity and sensitivity at major awards shows. Lindo's remarks at the NAACP Image Awards demonstrate how the entertainment community has rallied behind him and Jordan in the aftermath.

The details

During the NAACP Image Awards ceremony, host Deon Cole jokingly offered a 'prayer' for anyone in the audience with Tourette's to 'read the room.' Later, presenting an award, Regina Hall took a moment to recognize the 'class' of Jordan and Lindo. Other winners, including Quinta Brunson, also offered shoutouts of support for the Sinners cast and crew, of which Lindo is a part.

  • The 2026 BAFTA Awards took place the previous Sunday.
  • The 2026 NAACP Image Awards ceremony was held on March 1, 2026.

The players

Delroy Lindo

An acclaimed actor who was presenting an award at the BAFTA Awards when the Tourette's incident occurred.

Michael B. Jordan

An actor who was also presenting an award at the BAFTA Awards when the Tourette's incident occurred.

John Davidson

A guest at the BAFTA Awards who has Tourette Syndrome and shouted a racial slur while Lindo and Jordan were presenting.

Ryan Coogler

The writer-director of the film Sinners, in which Lindo stars.

Deon Cole

The host of the 2026 NAACP Image Awards ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“I'd just like to officially say, I appreciate, we appreciate all the support and love we have been shown in the aftermath of what happened last weekend. It means a lot to us”

— Delroy Lindo

“We see you. We're behind you … love you.”

— Quinta Brunson, Actress and creator, Abbott Elementary

What’s next

BAFTA has announced it will launch a 'comprehensive review' of the ceremony following the incident.

The takeaway

The support shown to Lindo and Jordan at the NAACP Image Awards demonstrates how the entertainment community has rallied behind them in the wake of the BAFTA controversy, turning a negative situation into a positive display of unity and solidarity.