BAFTAs moment shows us Tourette's is still so misunderstood

Tourette syndrome is complex: some key things worth knowing

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When the glitz of the 2026 BAFTA Awards met the unpredictable reality of Tourette syndrome, the resulting viral moment did more than just trend - it exposed a massive gap in public understanding.

British star Robert Aramayo's emotional reaction to winning the Bafta for best actor for his portrayal of a Tourette Syndrome campaigner in I Swear was arguably one of the standout moments of the 2026 Bafta film awards on Sunday night.

Set in 1980s Galashiels, a town in the Scottish Borders, I Swear follows the story of John Davidson, who developed the neurological disorder when he was 12, and his journey to advocating for better awareness of the condition.

Underdog Aramayo also scooped up the EE Rising Star award at the ceremony at the Royal Festival Hall in London, and the film also won the award for best casting.

The BBC issued a formal apology following the broadcast after a racial slur was shouted during the ceremony by a member of the audience who reportedly had Tourette Syndrome, as Sinners actors Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan presented the award for special visual effects.

While the highly praised I Swear biopic has shone a much-needed light on Tourette Syndrome, many myths around this condition still remain.

We spoke to Dr Lisa Davies, a Priory consultant psychiatrist and Tourette Syndrome specialist, who supports patients at Priory Hospital Roehampton, who has highlighted seven key things she wishes everyone knew about Tourette Syndrome.

1. Diagnosis requires tics to have been present for at least a year