BAFTAs Apologize for Strong Language from Nominee with Tourettes Syndrome

During the 2026 BAFTAs, host Alan Cumming apologized and thanked the audience for their understanding after John Davidson, a nominee who suffers from severe Tourette’s Syndrome, audibly interrupted the ceremony on multiple occasions.

Most notably, Davidson yelled the N-word while Michael B. Jordon and Delroy Lindo presented the award for Best Visual Effects. He also shouted “boring” and “fuck off” during comments made by BAFTA chair Sara Putt, and yelled “fuck you” as the directors of Arco accepted their award for Best Children’s and Fantasy Film.

Davidson is a revered ambassador for Tourette’s who was previously honored by Queen Elizabeth II for his advocacy work. His life is the subject of the biopic I Swear, which was nominated for five awards at the 2026 BAFTAs, with Robert Aramayo winning Best Actor in a Leading Role.

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Cumming twice addressed Davidson’s involuntary outbursts during the awards show. “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,” Cumming said at one point. “Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.””

“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,” Cumming said later in the ceremony.

According to Variety, Davidson left the ceremony of his own accord and was not asked to depart by event organizers, who had welcomed him as an “invited guest.”