Tourette's campaigner John Davidson 'mortified' after shouting racial slur during BAFTAs

Tourette’s sufferer John Davidson, who inspired a BAFTA-winning film, on Feb 23 said he was “deeply mortified” after shouting a racial slur at the London awards ceremony, which he said was caused by an “involuntary tic”.

- 

He was heard shouting the N-word as Sinners (2025) actors Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan, who are both black, presented an award for special visual effects at the ceremony on Feb 22.

“I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” Mr Davidson, who is the real-life inspiration behind the film I Swear, said in a statement to the PA news agency.

The 54-year-old added that he “chose” to leave the auditorium during the ceremony “as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing”.

“I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness and understanding from others and I will continue to do so,” he said.