The fallout from Sunday’s BAFTA Film Awards has intensified after an emerging talent judge dramatically stepped down. The decision follows controversy over a racial slur shouted during the ceremony, an incident that has sparked outrage, apologies, and a wider debate about accountability, inclusion, and empathy at one of Britain’s biggest nights in film.
BAFTA Judge Jonte Richardson Resigns Following Controversy
Per Daily Mail, Jonte Richardson announced he was withdrawing from the judging panel after what he described as a breaking point. In a LinkedIn statement, he wrote: “After considerable soul-searching, I feel compelled to withdraw from the Bafta emerging talent judging panel.”
He did not hold back. “The organisation’s handling of the unfortunate Tourette’s N-Word incident last night at the awards was utterly unforgivable. I cannot and will not contribute my time energy and expertise to an organisation that has repeatedly failed to safeguard the dignity of its Black guests, members and the Black creative community.”
Richardson added, “However, when an organisation like BAFTA, with its own long history of systemic racism, refuses to acknowledge the harm inflicted on both the Black and disabled communities and offer an appropriate apology, remaining involved would be tantamount to condoning its behaviour.”
He concluded with a warning: “I hope BAFTA leadership comprehend the damage they and the BBC have caused and take the necessary steps to ensure their production staff are inclusive enough to prevent such an issue in the future.”
Social Media Reacts: Outrage and Sympathy Follow BAFTA Incident
The incident occurred as Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan presented an award at London’s Royal Festival Hall. John Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome, later said he was “deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” adding, “I chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing.”
On Reddit, debate was immediate. One user wrote, “People should have been made aware that someone in the audience had Tourette’s and that something offensive may be yelled at different points.” Another countered, “From what I read, they were told beforehand and this wasn’t the first incident of the night. Just the biggest. Heartbreaking.”
“I think everyone knew about it. But I doubt the presenters were expecting a racial slur. It’s just an extremely unfortunate situation for everyone involved,” another commenter posted. One reaction captured the mood online: “My stomach dropped when I saw it… you can see their faces drop and the fact that they just have to keep going…”
In the end, the moment has become bigger than the ceremony itself. It’s a stark reminder that compassion and responsibility must share the same spotlight.
