John Davidson speaks out after racial slur incident at BAFTAs, says Tourette's tics 'not intentional'
John Davidson speaks out after racial slur incident at BAFTAs.
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As the fallout from Sunday night’s BAFTA ceremony continues, John Davidson has spoken publicly after a racial slur linked to his Tourette’s syndrome was heard during the broadcast, in a moment that unfolded while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo stood on stage presenting an award.
In a statement released on Monday, Davidson thanked BAFTA for the support he received and reiterated that his involuntary vocal tics are not reflective of his personal beliefs.
“I wanted to thank BAFTA and everyone involved in the awards last night for their support and understanding and for inviting me to attend the broadcast,” Davidson said.
“I appreciated the announcement to the auditorium in advance of the recording, warning everyone that my tics are involuntary and are not a reflection of my personal beliefs. I was heartened by the round of applause that followed this announcement and felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for me.”
He added: “In addition to the announcement by Alan Cumming, the BBC and BAFTA, I can only add that I am, and always have been, deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning.”
Davidson concluded by referencing the film based on his life. “I Swear,” he said, “more than any film or TV documentary, explains the origins, condition, traits and manifestations of Tourette Syndrome.”
“I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness and understanding from others and I will continue to do so,” Davidson said.
“I chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing.”
BAFTA also issued a formal apology following the incident.
The organisation said guests heard “very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many” and acknowledged the harm caused.
The academy apologised unreservedly to “Sinners” stars Jordan and Lindo, who were on stage at the time, and thanked them for their professionalism.
It also said Davidson chose to leave the auditorium and watch the remainder of the ceremony from a screen, acknowledging what should have been a celebratory night for him.
The BBC confirmed that some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the broadcast.
A spokesperson said the words arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette’s syndrome and were not intentional, adding that the moment would be removed from the version available on BBC iPlayer.
Tourette’s Action also called for public understanding.
Emma McNally, CEO of the charity, said: “We deeply understand that these words can cause hurt but at the same time, it is vital that the public understands a fundamental truth about Tourette syndrome: tics are involuntary. They are not a reflection of a person's beliefs, intentions, or character.”
Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements and sounds known as tics.
These can include physical gestures, throat clearing, repeated words or, in some cases, socially inappropriate or offensive language.
The condition varies in severity, and tics can intensify in high-pressure or emotionally charged environments. Crucially, they are not deliberate and do not represent the individual’s views.
The incident has prompted wider conversation about disability awareness, accountability and empathy at major public events, with Davidson’s statement emphasising education, dignity and the reality of living with Tourette’s syndrome in the public eye.