The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) and BBC issued apologies on Monday for the use of a racial slur that aired during Sunday’s broadcast while actors from the movie “Sinners” were on stage. The individual who uttered the slur, a Tourette syndrome advocate, expressed deep regret, clarifying that his words did not align with his personal beliefs.
The offensive term was heard as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, both Black actors, presented the award for best visual effects at the BAFTA ceremony. Host Alan Cumming had previously acknowledged the presence of John Davidson, an advocate for Tourette syndrome who inspired the BAFTA-nominated film “I Swear,” in the audience. Cumming later apologized for the inappropriate language used.
The academy acknowledged the hurt caused by the offensive language and commended the professionalism of Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Tourettes Action, a charity supporting individuals with Tourette syndrome, emphasized the involuntary nature of tics associated with the condition, urging understanding and empathy.
Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by sudden, uncontrollable movements or sounds known as tics. The Tourette Association of America reports that a minority of individuals with the syndrome experience coprolalia, which involves involuntary swearing or the use of socially unacceptable language.
The BBC, which broadcasted the event, apologized for the incident, attributing the use of the slur to involuntary verbal tics related to Tourette syndrome. The offensive language was later removed from the broadcast on BBC iPlayer. “I Swear” received two BAFTA awards, with Robert Aramayo winning best actor for his portrayal of John Davidson in the film.
Requests for comments from representatives of the movie “Sinners” and actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo have not been immediately answered.