The BBC and Britain's film academy issued apologies Monday after a guest with Tourette syndrome shouted a racial slur during Sunday night's BAFTA Film Awards, an incident that drew sharp criticism from celebrities and sparked debate over disability awareness, live broadcasting and racial sensitivity.

BAFTA Awards
BAFTA Awards

The outburst occurred as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, stars of the film "Sinners," presented the award for best special visual effects to "Avatar: Fire and Ash." John Davidson, a Scottish Tourette syndrome activist whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated film "I Swear," shouted the N-word, which was audible on the live broadcast from London's Royal Festival Hall.

Davidson, attending as a guest, had several involuntary verbal tics throughout the evening, including expletives during speeches and other moments. Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience twice, explaining that the outbursts stemmed from Davidson's condition. "Tourette syndrome is a disability, and the tics you've heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette syndrome has no control over their language," Cumming said. "We apologise if you are offended tonight."

The BBC, which broadcast the ceremony live in the UK, initially did not edit out the language. A spokesperson apologized Monday for "strong and offensive language" that aired, stating it arose from "involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and was not intentional." The corporation added that the offending segment would be removed from the on-demand version on BBC iPlayer. Producers later said they "didn't hear" the slur during the live show due to working in a production truck.

BAFTA also apologized "for any offence caused," emphasizing respect for all attendees and viewers while acknowledging the involuntary nature of the tics.

The incident ignited backlash, particularly from Black entertainers. Actor Jamie Foxx commented on social media that the outburst was "unacceptable," adding, "Nah he meant that shit." Wendell Pierce, production designer on "Sinners," criticized the apologies as "throwaway," writing that the insult to Jordan and Lindo should take priority: "It doesn't matter the reasoning for the racist slur." Journalist Jemele Hill echoed the sentiment, stating Black people "are just supposed to be ok with being disrespected and dehumanised so that other people don't feel bad."

Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition causing sudden, repetitive movements or sounds called tics, can include coprolalia — involuntary swearing or offensive language — in a minority of cases. Advocates stress that such tics are uncontrollable and not reflective of the person's beliefs.

Davidson, a prominent campaigner, has worked to educate about the condition through "I Swear," which was nominated in several categories. The film explores the challenges of living with severe tics and societal stigma. He was introduced to the audience early in the show, with Cumming noting his presence and the film's inspiration.

The controversy overshadowed parts of an otherwise celebratory night. "One Battle After Another," directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, dominated with six wins, including best film and best director. "Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler, earned three prizes — original screenplay, supporting actress for Wunmi Mosaku and original score for Ludwig Göransson — marking a historic night for a film from a Black director.

Other winners included "Sentimental Value" for film not in the English language and "My Father's Shadow" for outstanding British debut. The ceremony highlighted diverse talent, but the outburst shifted focus to broader issues of inclusion and live event management.

Critics questioned why the BBC did not apply a delay or mute button, standard in some live broadcasts involving known risks. Others defended the handling, arguing that censoring Davidson could stigmatize disability further.

Tourette's organizations released statements urging understanding: "Tics are not chosen, and associating them with intent harms the community," one group said.

As discussions continued Monday, the incident highlighted tensions between disability rights and the harm of racial slurs, even when unintentional. BAFTA and the BBC pledged to review protocols for future events.

The 2026 BAFTAs, hosted by Cumming, aimed to celebrate cinematic achievement amid a competitive awards season, but the controversy ensured the night would be remembered for more than its winners.