N-WORD OUTBURST

Slur at 2026 Baftas sparks outrage and debate

- By GERRY CUPIDO

A CONTROVERSIAL racial slur stunned audiences at the 2026 Baftas on Sunday, turning what should have been a celebratory night for film into one of the most talked-about and divisive awards moments since Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars.

The incident unfolded early in the ceremony when actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, both stars of the hit film “Sinners,” took to the stage to present the first award of the evening.

As they announced “Avatar: Fire and Ash” as the winner for Special Visual Effects, a voice from the audience shouted the n-word.

The shocking outburst was clearly audible inside the venue and was also picked up during the recording of the show.

Jordan and Lindo visibly paused, appearing stunned as the slur echoed across the room.