Summary
At the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), a Tourette’s syndrome advocate named John Davidson shouted a racial slur due to involuntary vocal tics. The incident led to a debate about the BBC's decision to broadcast the moment without editing it out. The BBC later apologized and removed the incident from future broadcasts.
Key Facts
- John Davidson, the inspiration for the BAFTA-nominated film "I Swear," experienced involuntary vocal tics at the event.
- During the BAFTAs, Davidson shouted a racial slur while the stars of "Sinners" were presenting.
- The BBC initially aired the incident but later apologized for not editing it out before broadcasting.
- The BAFTA host, Alan Cumming, explained to the audience that the tics were involuntary due to Tourette’s syndrome.
- Online discussions criticized the BBC for not using standard TV safeguards to prevent airing offensive language.
- The BBC eventually removed the incident from the version available on their streaming service, BBC iPlayer.
- Hannah Beachler, a production designer at the event, commented that the situation worsened by how it was handled.
- The incident has generated significant online debate about respect and sensitivity in broadcasting.
