The BBC has apologized after a racial slur aired during the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, shouted by guest John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome. The offensive word was broadcast while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented an award, and it initially remained on BBC iPlayer despite the two-hour delay of the show.
BBC Criticized for Slur During BAFTA 2026
Davidson, whose life inspired the film I Swear, shouted the N-word during the presentation. A BBC spokesperson said: “We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast and it will now be removed from the version on BBC iPlayer.”
The BBC added: “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the Bafta Film Awards. This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and as explained during the ceremony, it was not intentional.”
Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience, clarifying: “Tourette’s syndrome is a disability, and the tics you have heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette syndrome has no control over their language. We apologise if you were offended.”
Actor Robert Aramayo, who plays Davidson in I Swear, said: “They’re tics, he [Davidson] is ticking, and we have to understand that the way we perceive Tourette’s is a joint responsibility. It’s not shouting obscenities, it’s not being abusive, it’s Tourette’s and they’re tics.”
Reactions Pour In From Viewers
Viewers took to social media to voice frustration over the BBC’s handling. A Reddit user said, “Why the hell did they keep it in to begin with? They’re on a tape delay for a reason and cut other things out.” Another added, “THE FACT THEY DIDNT EDIT IT OUT IS [Expletive], and they still could’ve kept the explanation.”
Others highlighted the challenges of living with involuntary tics. One wrote: “Tourette’s is so scary. It’s terrifying to think about not being able to control the words that come out of your mouth or your body moving in a certain way. The N word being one of this guys Tics must also be scary.”
Despite the criticism, some stressed the educational value of the film. Pippa McClounan from Tourette’s Action said: “The tics are involuntary, and they are in no way reflection of what that person is thinking and their beliefs.” Davidson’s story, portrayed in I Swear, aims to raise awareness about Tourette’s and the daily challenges it brings.
The BBC now faces the delicate task of balancing awareness, accountability, and audience trust after the BAFTA broadcast controversy.
