Unintended Slur at BAFTA Shocks Audience and Viewers
At the 2026 British Academy of Film and Television Arts Film Awards, a moment of celebration turned into controversy when a member of the audience involuntarily uttered a racial slur during the ceremony. The outburst occurred while actors on stage were presenting an award, and it was audible during the delayed broadcast that aired on television and streaming.
The slur was spoken by John Davidson, a Scottish campaigner whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated film I Swear. Davidson, who lives with Tourette’s syndrome — a neurological condition that can cause uncontrolled verbal and physical tics — was attending the ceremony when his involuntary vocal tic was captured on camera and aired.
BBC and Host Issue Apologies
After the incident, the broadcaster issued an apology, acknowledging that offensive language was heard and expressing regret for not removing it before the programme was broadcast. The BBC said the words stemmed from involuntary tics linked to Tourette’s and were not intentional. In response, the broadcaster temporarily removed the awards broadcast from its online streaming service to produce an edited version without the offensive language.
During the ceremony itself, host Alan Cumming addressed the situation in real time, explaining that individuals with Tourette’s may have sudden, uncontrollable vocal outbursts and apologizing to anyone who might be offended.
Backlash and Response From the Entertainment World
Despite explanations about the condition, reactions were mixed. Some entertainers and industry figures expressed disappointment that the incident wasn’t managed more carefully, criticizing both the occurrence and the handling of the apology. Others weighed in on social media, calling the broadcast of the slur “unacceptable” and emphasizing that more sensitive editing should have been done before airing it to audiences.
The controversy also sparked broader commentary about how live or delayed broadcasts should be managed when unpredictable interruptions occur, especially involving conditions that can cause unexpected behaviour. Some disability advocates highlighted the importance of education about Tourette’s, while noting the real harm that offensive language, even if involuntary, can cause to those affected.
Awards Night Highlights Despite Controversy
Amid the uproar, the ceremony continued to spotlight notable achievements in film. I Swear itself received top honours, with actor Robert Aramayo winning Best Actor and an EE Rising Star award for his portrayal in the film inspired by Davidson’s life. Other films also secured awards, ensuring that the night was remembered for artistic excellence alongside the debate around the unintentional slur.
While the incident has reignited discussions about inclusion, broadcasting responsibility and public understanding of Tourette’s syndrome, it has also served as a reminder of how sensitive moments can rapidly become global talking points when they occur on widely watched platforms.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
