Delroy Lindo Speaks Out on Shocking N-Word Moment That Rocked the BAFTAs

Actor Delroy Lindo has addressed the controversy that unfolded during the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards after a racial slur was heard during the live ceremony. Speaking to Vanity Fair at a BAFTA after party, Lindo reflected on the moment he and his “Sinners” co-star Michael B. Jordan were on stage presenting the Best Visual Effects award to “Avatar: Fire and Ash.”

During the presentation, the N-word was shouted from the audience. Lindo said that he and Jordan “did what we had to do” in response to the incident. He also shared his disappointment afterward, saying he wished “someone from BAFTA spoke to us afterwards.” Variety has reported that it reached out to BAFTA for comment.

The person who shouted the slur was John Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome. Davidson attended the ceremony as the subject of the nominated biopic “I Swear.” Actor Robert Aramayo won Best Actor for portraying him in the film. Tourette syndrome can cause involuntary verbal tics, which may include sudden outbursts.

Davidson had several vocal interruptions during the event. These included profane remarks during speeches by BAFTA chair Sara Putt and during an acceptance speech for the film “Boong,” which won in the children’s and family category.

Sources claim that some guests seated near Davidson were informed about his condition by floor staff, but there were no clear details shared in advance about what specific language might be heard. Several attendees reportedly said they received no warning from BAFTA or the BBC before the ceremony.

Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience during the show after multiple outbursts. He said, “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. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”

Later, he added, “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. We apologize if you are offended tonight.”

The issue grew larger after the BBC aired the taped broadcast of the ceremony later that evening. The racial slur was still audible in the program. The BBC later removed the show from iPlayer and issued an apology.

A spokesperson said, “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the BAFTA Film Awards. This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and as explained during the ceremony it was not intentional. We apologize that this was not edited out prior to broadcast and it will now be removed from the version on BBC iPlayer.”

The situation has sparked debate about how live events handle unexpected and sensitive moments, especially when they involve disabilities. It also raises questions about communication with presenters and nominees before major broadcasts.

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