John Davidson, a Scottish man with severe Tourette syndrome, attended the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards on Sunday. Davidson inspired the film “I Swear,” an indie comedy-drama nominated for six awards at the BAFTAs.
During the ceremony, Davidson had several tics, or uncontrollable vocalizations. These outbursts are a symptom of Tourette’s. When black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award, Davidson shouted a racial slur at the men, who paused before continuing. The moment was met with condemnation from internet users and celebrities alike. Multi-millionaire Jamie Foxx called the incident “Unacceptable,” and added, “Nah he [Davidson] meant that shit.” Davidson has clarified that he did not, in fact, mean to heckle the actors on stage, saying he was “deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” according to Deadline.
