The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is speaking out after a shocking moment disrupted Sunday night’s awards ceremony.
Following widespread backlash, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts issued a public apology after Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson shouted a racial slur while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage presenting an award. The incident drew further criticism after the BBC aired the delayed broadcast without removing the language.
In its statement, BAFTA said it takes “full responsibility” for what occurred and offered an “unreserved” apology to those impacted.
“We want to acknowledge the harm this has caused,” the academy wrote, calling the language “deeply offensive” and recognizing the pain it carries.
Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson shouted the N-word while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage at the BAFTAs
— Narinder Kaur (@narindertweets) February 23, 2026
I'm sorry, this is WILDLY unacceptable on so many levels – mostly so from @BAFTA
We can all understand he has a condition, but this is subjecting Jordan… pic.twitter.com/jOjm1WsoDZ
BAFTA explained that Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome, experiences involuntary verbal tics that are not reflective of his beliefs or intent. The organization noted that audience members were warned in advance that strong language might occur during the ceremony.
Still, BAFTA acknowledged the seriousness of the incident.
“Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage at the time, and we apologise unreservedly,” the statement read, praising both actors for their “incredible dignity and professionalism.”
BAFTA added that Davidson chose to leave the auditorium midway through the ceremony “with dignity and consideration,” and said the organization will learn from the incident while keeping inclusion at the center of future events.
