BAFTA Judge Jonte Richardson Resigns Following Controversy Over Racist Slur Incident

Filmmaker Jonte Richardson has resigned from his role as a BAFTA emerging talent judge, citing the academy’s handling of a racial slur incident during the awards ceremony. The slur was uttered involuntarily by John Davidson, a Tourette’s campaigner, while black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award. The incident, caused by Davidson’s severe Tourette syndrome, was broadcast on live television and streamed on BBC iPlayer before being edited out. Richardson criticized BAFTA for failing to protect the dignity of Black guests and the creative community, calling the organization’s response ‘utterly unforgivable.’ BAFTA issued an apology, taking full responsibility and thanking the actors for their professionalism. The BBC also apologized for not initially censoring the slur. Davidson expressed remorse for the distress his tics caused and left the auditorium early. The film ‘I Swear,’ which dramatizes Davidson’s life with Tourette syndrome, was part of the evening’s awards. Richardson, a BAFTA member since 2011, has worked internationally on projects including Channel 4’s ‘Bluefinch’ and productions for BET and HBO. The controversy has raised questions about live broadcast editing, accessibility, and the responsibilities of award organizations to safeguard all attendees.