Summary
An incident at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards involving Tourette's campaigner John Davidson led to discussion online. During the event, Davidson, who inspired the film I Swear, experienced vocal tics that included offensive words. The broadcaster BBC later apologized for how the event was handled.
Key Facts
- John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome, was present at the BAFTAs when he experienced vocal tics.
- His involuntary tics included shouted expletives and a racial slur during a broadcasted presentation.
- The actor Thierry Mabonga defended Davidson, explaining the intent of the film I Swear is to educate about Tourette’s syndrome.
- The BBC removed the show from its streaming platform and issued an apology.
- BAFTAs host Alan Cumming explained during the event that Tourette’s tics are involuntary.
- John Davidson stated he did not intend to cause distress and left the ceremony early.
- Discussions on Reddit reflected a mix of opinions about accommodating neurological conditions while managing the broadcast of offensive language.
