BAFTA links offensive outburst to the guest's Tourette's Syndrome

A shouted slur during the BAFTA Film Awards rattled the room, and the organization stepped up to explain that it stemmed from Tourette's Syndrome, not intent.

BAFTA addresses the onstage incident

• BAFTA confirmed the outburst came from John Davidson MBE.
• Organizers said Tourette's syndrome triggered an involuntary verbal tic.
• The committee stressed the language did not reflect Davidson’s views.
• An apology was issued to everyone hurt by the moment.

Context around John Davidson

• John Davidson MBE serves as executive producer on I Swear.
• That BAFTA-nominated film draws from his life story.
• Davidson has spent years advocating awareness of Tourette's syndrome.
• Before the ceremony, guests were warned about possible tics.

Impact inside the auditorium

• Early in the event, a loud slur echoed across the venue.
• Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage then.
• BAFTA directly apologized to both actors for the distress.
• Davidson later exited the auditorium and watched remotely.