BBC says racial slur shouted at ‘Sinners’ actors during BAFTAs was result of Tourette syndrome

BBC says racial slur shouted at ‘Sinners’ actors during BAFTAs was result of Tourette syndrome

February 23, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Entertainment

The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) ceremony on Sunday was marked by disruptive outbursts, including a racial slur directed at presenters Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. The BBC has apologized for the “strong and offensive language” heard during the broadcast.

Disruptions During the Ceremony

Jordan and Lindo, stars of the film “Sinners,” were onstage to present the award for best visual effects when the incident occurred. According to reports, the actors paused briefly after the slur was shouted before continuing with their presentation. A U.S. Broadcast of the awards on E! did not appear to censor the offensive language.

Did You Know? Ryan Coogler, director of “Sinners,” became the first Black man to win best original screenplay at the BAFTAs this year.

Further disruptions were reported by Variety, including shouts of “shut the f— up” during BAFTA chair Sara Putt’s opening remarks and “f— you” as the award for best children’s and family film was accepted.

Tourette Syndrome and the Outbursts

The BBC attributed the offensive language to an attendee experiencing involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome. The centres for Disease Control and Prevention defines Tourette syndrome as a condition of the nervous system causing sudden twitches, movements, or sounds – known as tics.

BAFTAs host Alan Cumming addressed the audience, acknowledging the “strong and offensive language” and explaining that Tourette syndrome is a disability where tics, including verbal outbursts, are involuntary. He offered an apology on behalf of the ceremony.

Expert Insight: The situation highlights the complexities of live events and the challenges of responding to unpredictable incidents. While the BBC’s explanation centres on a medical condition, the impact of the language itself remains significant, regardless of intent.

The individual reportedly responsible for the racial slur has been identified by Variety as John Davidson, a campaigner for Tourette syndrome awareness. He was present at the awards with his film, “I Swear,” which documents his experiences with the condition. NBC News has not independently confirmed this identification, and the BBC has not responded to a follow-up inquiry regarding the source of the slur.

“I Swear” and Other Awards

“I Swear” received critical acclaim in the U.K., with Robert Aramayo winning the best actor award. The film is scheduled for release in U.S. theatres on April 24.

Beyond the disruptions, the 79th annual BAFTAs celebrated successes like “Sinners,” which won three awards, including the historic win for Ryan Coogler.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the BBC’s response to the offensive language?

The BBC apologized for the “strong and offensive language” heard during the BAFTA Film Awards, attributing it to involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome.

What did Alan Cumming say about the outbursts?

Alan Cumming acknowledged the “strong and offensive language” and explained that Tourette syndrome is a disability causing involuntary tics, including uncontrollable language, and offered an apology.

What is the film “I Swear” about?

“I Swear” follows the story of John Davidson’s Tourette syndrome diagnosis, his struggles, and his journey to raise public awareness about the condition.

How will this incident affect future live broadcasts and the consideration of potential disruptions?