Last night’s BAFTAs ceremony was overshadowed by a controversial moment when campaigner John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome, was heard shouting repeated outbursts during the live event. The incident occurred while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage presenting an award. A racial slur and other offensive phrases were broadcast despite a two-hour delay, prompting the BBC to issue a statement. The broadcaster acknowledged the “strong and offensive language,” explaining it was linked to involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette’s.

The edited version was later updated on BBC iPlayer. Davidson, who has spoken publicly about living with Tourette’s, reportedly left the ceremony during the second half. Tourette’s syndrome can involve involuntary movements and vocal tics, and in some cases includes coprolalia — the uncontrollable utterance of inappropriate or offensive words.

Actor Jamie Foxx addressed the incident in comments on social media, criticizing the situation and questioning how it was handled. Actor Wendell Pierce also expressed frustration, stating that the focus should be on those affected by the remarks, regardless of the medical explanation. Meanwhile, Robert Aramayo, who portrayed Davidson in the film I Swear, urged for greater understanding of Tourette’s. Speaking after his BAFTA win, Aramayo emphasized that tics are involuntary and called for compassion and awareness around the condition.

BAFTAs host Alan Cumming later clarified to the audience that Tourette’s can present in this way and apologized for any offense caused, stressing that such vocalizations are beyond the individual’s control. The incident has since sparked wider conversation about disability awareness, broadcast standards, and the complexities surrounding involuntary speech conditions.