BAFTAs Address Controversy: Guest with Tourette Syndrome Unintentionally Utters Racial Slur at Ceremony

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BAFTAs Address Controversy: Guest with Tourette Syndrome Unintentionally Utters Racial Slur at Ceremony

The BAFTA Film Awards held at London’s Royal Festival Hall recently faced backlash when John Davidson, a guest and the inspiration behind the film I Swear, shouted offensive language during the live ceremony. His outcry included a racial slur, which made it into the BBC broadcast that aired a couple of hours later.

Davidson, known for his Tourette syndrome, has been an advocate for better understanding of the condition. I Swear, which explores his life, won two BAFTA awards, including one for lead actor Robert Aramayo.

While presentators Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage, Davidson’s comment interrupted the moment, but the actors remained composed. Following the event, BAFTA released an apology acknowledging the distress caused by Davidson’s vocal tics, which he cannot control. They emphasized that these outbursts do not reflect his beliefs.

Interestingly, statistics from the Tourette Association of America reveal that between 10% and 15% of people with Tourette syndrome may experience vocal tics that include inappropriate language. This was confirmed in subsequent reports noting that Davidson shouted other insults and profanities throughout the night.

Amid the controversy, host Alan Cumming addressed the situation from the stage, apologizing for any offense taken. Aramayo, in his acceptance speech, praised Davidson and called for more support for those with Tourette syndrome.

The incident raised discussions on social media, where viewers expressed a mix of shock and understanding about the complexities surrounding Tourette syndrome and the importance of awareness.

Following the backlash, the BBC acknowledged the failure to edit out the slur from the show, attributing it to the nature of Davidson’s condition. This incident sheds light not only on the challenges faced by individuals with Tourette syndrome but also highlights the need for compassion and understanding in such public environments.

For more information about Tourette syndrome, you can visit the Tourette Association of America.



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