The 79th British Academy Film Awards ceremony in London took an unexpected turn when several involuntary outbursts from a Tourette’s syndrome campaigner were heard during the live event. The situation drew immediate attention and sparked discussion about awareness and understanding of the neurological condition.
The individual in question is John Davidson, a Scottish activist for Tourette’s syndrome whose life story inspired the BAFTA-nominated film I Swear. Davidson was introduced to the audience before the ceremony began so attendees were aware he might make involuntary noises or vocal sounds during the show.
Several interruptions occurred throughout the awards night. In some cases Davidson’s verbal tics included loud swearing that could be heard inside the venue and on the BBC’s delayed broadcast. At one point, while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the Best Visual Effects award, an offensive racial slur was unintentionally emitted and heard by the audience. Presenters and recipients momentarily paused before continuing with the ceremony.
Tourette’s syndrome campaigner #JohnDavidson, 54, caused several disruptions during tonight’s BAFTA Film Awards in London, including shouting a racial slur while Sinners stars #MichaelBJordan and #DelroyLindo were presenting the first award at the #BAFTAs pic.twitter.com/DqYNeEbpj6
— theshadeborough (@theshadeborough) February 22, 2026
Alan Cumming, the host of the evening, addressed the situation with calm and explanation. He thanked the audience for their patience and understanding, noting that the strong language was part of how Tourette’s syndrome can manifest in some individuals. He urged attendees to be respectful and inclusive, and later explained that such tics are involuntary and beyond the person’s control. Cumming apologized to anyone who felt offended by what was heard during the event.
Davidson reportedly left the awards partway through the ceremony, and BAFTA clarified that he was an invited guest and would not have been asked to leave. The incident came amid a celebratory night that also featured major wins for other films and performances. Actor Robert Aramayo, who portrayed Davidson in I Swear, won both the Best Actor award and the EE Rising Star Award, and in his acceptance speech he praised Davidson’s courage and message about the importance of awareness and support for people living with Tourette’s.
The episode brought attention not only to the achievements at the BAFTAs but also to broader conversations about neurological diversity, how conditions like Tourette’s are portrayed in film, and how live events handle unexpected moments with sensitivity and care.