The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards night sparked controversy after John Davidson, a Tourette syndrome advocate.
Davidson shouted unintentional profanities and a racial slur during the live broadcast.
The racial slur prompted an on-air apology from Alan Cumming.
During the ceremony, Davidson shouted, “Shut the fuck up” as BAFTA president Sara Putt gave the speech.
He also yelled, “Fuck you” during the acceptance of Best Children and Family Film. However, the most controversial moment was when he shouted the N-word at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, who presented the award for Best Visual Effects.
Cumming addressed the condition twice on stage, stating, “You may have noticed strong language in the background. This may be part of how Tourette syndrome manifests in some people.”
“Tourette syndrome is a disability and the tics you heard tonight are involuntary. We apologize if you are offended tonight,” he added.
As reported by VarietyDavidson voluntarily left the ceremony after the controversy.
What is Tourette syndrome?
Tourette syndrome is a neurological and neurodevelopmental disorder that causes involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations known as tics. The patient may have two or more tics and at least one vocal tic, although not necessarily at the same time. The syndrome can be diagnosed at 2 years of age.
