Bafta Awards Incident Sparks Apologies After Tourette's Tic
Tourette's campaigner John Davidson has stated he is profoundly mortified after shouting a racial slur during the Bafta Film Awards ceremony, emphasising that his involuntary tics carry no intentional meaning. The incident occurred as actors Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan presented the special visual effects award at London's Royal Festival Hall on Sunday night.
Davidson's Statement and Early Departure
In a statement to the Press Association, the 54-year-old explained he chose to leave the auditorium early due to awareness of the distress his tics were causing. Davidson expressed gratitude to Bafta for their support and the pre-ceremony announcement warning attendees about his condition. He highlighted feeling heartened by the round of applause that followed, which made him feel welcomed in an environment typically challenging for him.
Davidson added, "I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning." He attended to celebrate the film I Swear, which details his life with Tourette syndrome, a condition he has devoted his life to supporting through education and empathy campaigns.
Bafta's Response and Responsibility
Bafta issued a statement on Monday night apologising for the incident and taking full responsibility for placing guests in a difficult situation. A spokesperson acknowledged the offensive language caused incomparable trauma and pain, emphasising that Tourette syndrome causes involuntary verbal tics unrelated to personal beliefs.
The organisation detailed measures taken, including announcements to the audience about Davidson's presence and potential strong language. They apologised unreservedly to Lindo and Jordan, praising their dignity and professionalism. Bafta also thanked Davidson for his consideration in leaving early and committed to learning from the event while maintaining inclusion as a core value.
BBC Apology and Charity Perspectives
The BBC apologised for not editing the racial slur out of the broadcast, noting it arose from involuntary tics and was not intentional. A spokesperson confirmed the offensive language would be removed from the BBC iPlayer version.
Charity Tourettes Action called for public understanding, stating tics are neurological and not reflective of a person's character. They expressed sadness over the backlash and clarified that people with Tourette's often feel distress about such incidents. Tourette Scotland, which has collaborated with Davidson, affirmed there was no meaning behind the outburst and described the community as kind and empathetic.
Background on Tourette Syndrome and Davidson's Work
According to the NHS, Tourette syndrome involves sudden, repetitive sounds or movements, with rare cases involving uncontrollable offensive language. There is no cure, but treatment can help manage tics. Davidson, made an MBE in 2019 for increasing understanding of the condition, developed Tourette's at age 12. His film I Swear, which won awards including best casting and featured Robert Aramayo as best actor, aims to educate on the condition's origins and manifestations.
