Watch: Tourette’s Campaigner John Davidson Shouts N-Word as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo Stand on BAFTAs Stage
BAFTA Awards viewers were left stunned on Sunday night when an unexpected outburst interrupted the ceremony as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo took the stage.
The two actors were presenting the award for best visual effects when a racial slur was shouted from the audience. The voice was identified as John Davidson, a campaigner for Tourette’s syndrome who attended the event as a guest. The moment was heard clearly inside the venue.
Alan Cumming thanked the audience for their “understanding” after repeated outbursts from Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson interrupted the BAFTAs.
— cinesthetic. (@TheCinesthetic) February 22, 2026
During one moment, n-word was shouted while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage. pic.twitter.com/BHx7AoZDab
Jordan and Lindo kept going and finished presenting the award, which went to “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” They did not react to the comment and continued with the show.
Davidson’s outburst was related to his Tourette’s syndrome. He is known for having severe vocal tics, which can include shouting words without control.
Host Alan Cumming addressed the moment shortly after it happened. He told the audience, “You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience.” He added, “Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
Later in the show, Cumming spoke again and said, “Tourette’s syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s syndrome has no control over their language.” He also said, “We apologize if you are offended tonight.”
Davidson’s voice was heard at other moments during the ceremony as well. He reportedly shouted during speeches and while winners were accepting awards. Variety reported that he appeared to leave the ceremony during the second half of the night. A source told the outlet that he was an invited guest and that the organizers would not have asked him to leave.
Davidson is the real-life inspiration behind the BAFTA-nominated film “I Swear,” which is based on his life. When he was younger, he was featured in the 1989 BBC documentary “John’s Not Mad,” which followed his daily struggles with severe Tourette’s syndrome.
Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes repeated movements or sounds known as tics. According to the Mayo Clinic, tics are sudden and brief, and people who have them often cannot control them. There is currently no cure for the condition.
The incident created an uncomfortable moment inside the awards show, but the ceremony continued without any further major disruptions.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!