Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo Are Shocked by Racial Slur From Audience Member With Tourette Syndrome at 2026 BAFTA Film Awards in London

The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards took an unexpected turn when a racial slur was shouted from the audience while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting on stage.

The moment left both actors reportedly “disgusted” and blindsided, prompting a scramble backstage among organizers to contain the situation.

The slur came from John Davidson MBE, a guest with Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition that causes involuntary verbal tics.

While the remark was unintentional, the incident instantly sparked controversy and drew attention from both the industry and the public.

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Actors Stay Professional Amid Chaos

According to insiders, both Jordan and Lindo handled the moment with professionalism, choosing not to respond publicly during the live broadcast.

“Delroy and Michael, like everyone else, didn’t expect what happened to happen,” a source told Daily Mail.

“They focused on why they were there—to celebrate—and didn’t give the incident any more life than it already had.”

The actors are said to be determined not to let the incident overshadow their work, especially with Sinners still in contention for awards and celebrating recent box office success.

A source emphasized that the pair hope the situation can serve as a teachable moment rather than a divisive one.

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Backstage Tensions and Industry Reactions

Behind the scenes, the situation reportedly worsened.

Organizers and some industry figures allegedly tried to downplay the incident, prompting frustration from the actors.

“Some people tried to explain it away to Michael, Lindo, and Wumni backstage, but they weren’t interested.

It really isn’t acceptable,” a source said.

Concerns were also raised about the wider fallout for Sony, which holds international rights to I Swear.

With the film earning $370 million at the box office, executives now face the challenge of promoting a biopic whose lead actors were publicly insulted during American Black History Month.

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Apologies and Responses

The BBC issued a direct apology to Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo, and the cast, acknowledging that the slur aired on live broadcast.

The network stressed that Davidson had no ill intent and that his tics were involuntary.

BAFTA also addressed the incident, confirming Davidson’s Tourette syndrome and emphasizing that he had received warnings prior to the ceremony about the possibility of strong involuntary language.

The organization apologized “unreservedly” to the actors and all impacted, praising Jordan and Lindo for their professionalism and dignity.

Davidson himself released a statement expressing remorse.

“I am deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” he said.

He added that he chose to leave the auditorium early to avoid further distress, and reiterated his commitment to supporting the Tourette’s community and promoting understanding.

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Looking to Move Forward

Sources close to the situation say Jordan and Lindo want to turn the incident into a constructive discussion rather than dwell on the negativity.

Both actors are reportedly seeking a conversation with Davidson to address the situation, aiming to transform it into a moment of unity and empathy rather than division.

Despite the incident, they remain focused on Sinners’ continued success during awards season and are prepared to field questions from media about the event in the coming weeks.

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What’s Next?

The immediate focus will likely be on maintaining momentum for Sinners as award season continues.

Jordan and Lindo are expected to navigate interviews carefully, addressing the BAFTA incident while highlighting the film’s achievements.

Conversations with Davidson may also take place privately, potentially creating a platform for education about Tourette syndrome and the challenges faced by those living with the condition.

Industry watchers will also be monitoring the reaction of networks and studios in future events, ensuring safeguards are in place to prevent similar incidents while balancing inclusion and awareness for neurodiverse guests.

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Summary

At the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were shocked when a racial slur was shouted by John Davidson MBE, a guest with Tourette syndrome.

Both actors chose not to react on stage and handled the situation professionally.

BAFTA and the BBC issued apologies, and Davidson expressed remorse, clarifying that his tics were involuntary.

Jordan and Lindo are determined to use the incident as a teachable moment, continue promoting Sinners, and engage in constructive conversations about inclusion and understanding.