Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience at the BAFTA Film Awards after several audible outbursts from Tourette’s syndrome campaigner John Davidson, including one in which the n-word was heard during the ceremony. The host thanked attendees for their patience and called for compassion, placing the focus on awareness of Tourette’s syndrome rather than disruption.
Alan Cumming asks for understanding amid BAFTAs heckle
During the live event, part of Alan Cumming’s BAFTA moment happened when John Davidson — the inspiration behind the BAFTA-nominated film “I Swear” — shouted involuntary phrases from the audience. Davidson, who was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at 25 after symptoms began at 12, experiences tics and uncontrollable verbal outbursts, often involving swearing.
Outbursts were heard throughout the night, including “shut the f**k up” during an opening speech by BAFTA chair Sara Putt and “f**k you” as the directors of Boong accepted their award for best children’s and family film. During another moment, as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the best visual effects award to Avatar: Fire and Ash, Davidson shouted the n-word.
Addressing the audience — which included the Prince and Princess of Wales — Cumming said: “You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
Later, he added: “Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologize if you are offended tonight.”
According to Variety, Davidson left the ceremony voluntarily during the second half and was not asked to leave. A source told the outlet he was an invited guest. Before the ceremony began, a floor manager had already informed attendees that Davidson might make involuntary noises or movements.
