The 79th British Academy Film Awards was disrupted Sunday, February 22, 2026, when an attendee shouted a racial slur during the presentation of the Best Visual Effects award by actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo.
Incident Details
John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome, shouted the n-word while Jordan and Lindo were on stage. Davidson was present at the awards ceremony as his life story inspired the film I Swear, which was nominated for several awards. Robert Aramayo won the BAFTA for Leading Actor for his performance as Davidson.
Actor Jamie Foxx reacted to the incident with a post on Instagram, stating, “Nah he meant that s—,” and adding, “Unacceptable.” Production designer Hannah Beachler shared on X that the incident occurred multiple times during the evening, including once directed at her.
BAFTA host Alan Cumming addressed the outburst during the ceremony, explaining that involuntary outbursts can be a symptom of Tourette’s syndrome, as depicted in the film I Swear. BAFTA later issued a written apology, acknowledging the harm caused by the offensive language and apologizing to Jordan, Lindo, and all those impacted.
Actor Wendell Pierce condemned the awards show on social media, stating that the initial response should have been a “complete and full-throated” apology to Jordan and Lindo, and that the insult to them should accept priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the BAFTA Awards?
An attendee with Tourette’s syndrome shouted a racial slur while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award.
How did BAFTA respond to the incident?
BAFTA issued a written apology acknowledging the harm caused by the offensive language and apologized to those impacted, including Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo.
What was Jamie Foxx’s reaction?
Jamie Foxx commented on social media, stating, “Nah he meant that s—,” and adding, “Unacceptable.”
How will this incident affect future BAFTA ceremonies and security protocols remains to be seen.
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