BBC apologises for offensive outburst at BAFTAs linked to Tourette syndrome

During the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, a racial slur was shouted at the stage while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the first award. Clips of the incident circulated online, showing the actors briefly pausing before continuing. Additional disruptions were reported throughout the ceremony, including profanities directed at BAFTA chair Sara Putt and during the acceptance of the best children’s and family film award. The BBC explained that these outbursts came from an attendee with Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition that causes involuntary tics, which in rare cases include coprolalia—the uncontrollable use of offensive language. The BBC and host Alan Cumming both issued apologies, clarifying that the language was involuntary and not intentional. The ceremony also celebrated British rising star Robert Aramayo, who won the best actor award for his performance in ‘I Swear,’ a film about the life of Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson. The event highlighted both the challenges faced by individuals with Tourette syndrome and the need for understanding of involuntary behaviors in public settings.