Last night’s BAFTA ceremony was marked by controversy involving John Davidson, a campaigner with Tourette’s syndrome. During the live broadcast, Davidson shouted repeated outbursts as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented an award. Despite a two-hour delay, a racial slur and other offensive phrases were heard on air.

The BBC later issued a statement acknowledging the “strong and offensive language,” explaining it was linked to involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette’s. The edited ceremony was subsequently updated on BBC iPlayer. Davidson, who has spoken publicly about living with the condition, reportedly left during the second half of the event.

Tourette’s syndrome involves involuntary movements and vocalizations. In some cases, it includes coprolalia—the uncontrollable utterance of inappropriate or offensive words, which may have contributed to the incident.

Actor Jamie Foxx addressed the situation on social media, criticizing how it was handled. Similarly, Wendell Pierce expressed frustration, emphasizing that the focus should remain on those affected by the remarks, regardless of the medical explanation.

Robert Aramayo, who portrayed Davidson in the film I Swear, called for greater understanding of Tourette’s. Speaking after his BAFTA win, he stressed that tics are involuntary and urged compassion and awareness around the condition.

Host Alan Cumming later explained to the audience that Tourette’s can manifest in this way. He apologized for any offense and emphasized that such vocalizations are beyond an individual’s control.

The incident sparked wider conversation about disability awareness and broadcast standards. It highlighted the challenges live events face when accommodating medical conditions while maintaining public broadcasts. Ultimately, the episode underscored the need for empathy, understanding, and careful handling when medical conditions intersect with public exposure.