John Davidson 2026 BAFTA backlash: Tourettes Action charity defends him over 'unintentional' racial slur

A storm was kicked off at the 2026 BAFTA Awards when John Davidson, who is diagnosed with Tourette's syndrome, involuntarily shouted a racial slur when Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award.

The activist, who was at the event for the film I Swear – which was inspired by his life – and starred Robert Aramayo, who won the Best Actor prize for his performance at the show.

He removed himself from the audience, but despite this incident, an uproar took place on social media. 

James Foxx, a well-known actor, also weighed in on the episode, calling Davidson's comments “unacceptable”.

In response to backlash, a charity in the UK, Tourettes Action, spoke out, condemning the hatred against the activist.

"The negative comments that have surfaced following John’s involuntary vocal tics during the ceremony," the group notes in a statement to Far Out. 

“We deeply understand that these words can cause hurt, but at the same time, it is vital that the public understands a fundamental truth about Tourette syndrome: tics are involuntary. They are not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions, or character.”

“People with Tourette’s can say words or phrases they do not mean, do not endorse, and feel great distress about afterwards. These symptoms are neurological, not intentional, and they are something John – like many others with Tourette’s – lives with every single day," the statement read.