Tourette's Advocate Apologizes for Racial Slur at BAFTAs

John Davidson says his involuntary tic caused the outburst during Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo's presentation.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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John Davidson, a Tourette's Syndrome advocate, has apologized for shouting a racial slur during the BAFTAs while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting. Davidson, who was diagnosed with Tourette's as a child, said the outburst was an involuntary tic and not a reflection of his personal beliefs. The BBC and BAFTA also apologized for the incident, with BAFTA praising Jordan and Lindo's 'incredible dignity and professionalism' in handling the situation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges faced by those with Tourette's Syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary vocal and motor tics. It also raises questions about how live events can better accommodate and support individuals with disabilities or conditions that may result in unexpected outbursts.

The details

During the BAFTAs ceremony, as Jordan and Lindo were presenting an award, Davidson shouted a racial slur. Davidson, who was at the event for the film I Swear based on his life, has been an outspoken advocate for Tourette's Syndrome. He explained that the outburst was an involuntary tic related to his condition and not a reflection of his personal beliefs. The BBC apologized for airing the slur, while BAFTA apologized to Jordan and Lindo for putting them in a difficult situation.

  • On Sunday, February 22, 2026, the incident occurred during the BAFTAs ceremony.
  • On Monday, February 23, 2026, Davidson released a statement addressing the incident.

The players

John Davidson

A Tourette's Syndrome advocate who was diagnosed with the condition as a child. He was attending the BAFTAs for the film I Swear, which is based on his life.

Michael B. Jordan

An actor who was presenting an award at the BAFTAs when Davidson's outburst occurred.

Delroy Lindo

An actor who was presenting an award at the BAFTAs with Michael B. Jordan when Davidson's outburst occurred.

BBC

The broadcaster that aired the BAFTAs ceremony and apologized for airing the racial slur.

BAFTA

The organization that hosts the BAFTAs and apologized for putting Jordan and Lindo in a difficult situation.

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What’s next

BAFTA has stated they will review their procedures for accommodating individuals with disabilities or conditions that may result in unexpected outbursts at future ceremonies.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of Tourette's Syndrome and other invisible disabilities. It also underscores the importance of live event organizers proactively addressing potential challenges and supporting all participants with empathy and respect.