Statement from BAFTAs Incident Participant

An audience member with Tourette syndrome, who shouted racial slurs during the recent BAFTAs ceremony, issued a statement expressing remorse over the event on Monday.

John Davidson, who has severe Tourette syndrome, was a figure tied to the BAFTA-nominated film “I Swear.” During the broadcast, voices like those of actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo could be heard, as Davidson reportedly yelled profanities, including “fuck you” and “shut up.”

In his statement, Davidson admitted to feeling “deeply frustrated” that his involuntary tics might be misconstrued as intentional. He noted that he attended the event to celebrate what he referred to as “the best movie of my life,” emphasizing how the film accurately depicts the condition of Tourette syndrome.

Davidson explained that he’s spent much of his life supporting others with Tourette syndrome, urging kindness and empathy in society. He also mentioned feeling compelled to leave early from the ceremony to alleviate any pain his tics might have caused others.

Expressing gratitude, Davidson thanked BAFTA and its members for their understanding and for announcing prior to the broadcast that his tics are involuntary and do not represent his beliefs. He reflected on the support he received during the event, feeling welcomed despite being in a challenging situation.

Alan Cumming, the BAFTAs host, recognized the incident during the broadcast, addressing the strong language heard in the background as part of how Tourette syndrome may affect some individuals.

The BBC later apologized for failing to edit out the offensive language before the broadcast, clarifying that it was unintentional—stemming from Davidson’s condition.

On social media, some expressed criticism regarding how the situation was handled. Jemele Hill, a former ESPN anchor, implied that more empathy should have been shown towards Davidson rather than the actors who had to endure the fallout from the incident.