The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) and BBC issued apologies on Monday for the use of a racial slur during Sunday’s broadcast while actors from the movie “Sinners” were on stage.
The individual who uttered the slur, a Tourette syndrome advocate, expressed deep regret, stating that his words did not reflect his personal beliefs.
The offensive term was heard as Black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, who star in “Sinners,” presented the award for best visual effects at the BAFTA ceremony. Host Alan Cumming had mentioned the presence of John Davidson, a Tourette syndrome advocate, who inspired the BAFTA-nominated film “I Swear,” in the audience. Cumming later apologized for the offensive language used.
The incident led to an apology from the academy for the use of language that can cause significant harm. Tourettes Action, a Tourette syndrome charity, emphasized the involuntary nature of tics associated with the condition.
Tourette syndrome is characterized by involuntary movements or sounds known as tics, which can worsen in moments of excitement or anxiety. The Tourette Association of America notes that a subset of individuals with the syndrome may experience coprolalia, which involves involuntary swearing or using socially unacceptable language.
The BBC, which broadcast the ceremony, acknowledged the use of offensive language and stated that it was unintentional. The program containing the slur was subsequently removed from the BBC iPlayer service.
“I Swear” received two BAFTAs, including one for best actor awarded to Robert Aramayo, who portrays Davidson in the film.
No immediate comments were available from representatives of the film or actors Jordan and Lindo.