The BAFTA Film Awards saw a moment of unexpected disruption on evening, as host Alan Cumming addressed several outbursts from John Davidson, a Tourette syndrome advocate and the subject of the nominated biopic “I Swear.” Davidson’s involuntary vocal tics, which included profanity and a racial slur, prompted Cumming to pause the ceremony twice to acknowledge the situation and offer context to the audience.
According to reports from Variety, Davidson’s interruptions began during BAFTA chair Sara Putt’s introductory speech, where he shouted “shut the fuck up.” Further outbursts occurred when the directors of the animated film “Arco” accepted the award for best children’s and family film and again during a presentation by actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, at which point a racial slur was audible.
Cumming responded with a measured approach, initially explaining to the audience that the language they were hearing “can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience.” He thanked viewers for their understanding and emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful environment. Later in the ceremony, Cumming offered a more direct apology, clarifying that Tourette’s syndrome is a disability and that the tics are involuntary, meaning individuals with the condition have no control over their language. “We apologize if you are offended tonight,” he stated.
The disruptions ceased when Davidson left the Royal Festival Hall during the second half of the event. BAFTA organizers did not ask him to leave, Variety reported.
Davidson was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at the age of 25, though he began experiencing tics at age 12. “I Swear,” which received five BAFTA nominations, chronicles his life and experiences with the condition. The film’s star, Robert Aramayo, won the evening’s best lead actor award, beating out Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. Aramayo also took home the Rising Star award and used his acceptance speech to pay tribute to Davidson, calling him “the most remarkable man” he had ever met.
“I just want to say for people who are living with Tourette’s, it’s the buzz around them that helped define what their experience is so, to quote the film, ‘They need support and understanding,’” Aramayo said.
The incident at the BAFTAs highlights the complexities of representing neurological differences in public spaces and the challenges of balancing respect for individual experiences with the need for a comfortable and inclusive environment. Cumming’s handling of the situation was widely praised for its sensitivity and attempt to educate the audience about Tourette’s syndrome. The moment also brought increased attention to “I Swear,” a film that aims to shed light on a condition often misunderstood or stigmatized.
The inclusion of Davidson at the awards ceremony, despite the potential for outbursts, underscores the film’s commitment to authentic representation. His presence served as a powerful reminder that Tourette’s syndrome is not a performance, but a neurological condition that significantly impacts those who live with it. The film’s success at the BAFTAs, culminating in Aramayo’s win, suggests that audiences are receptive to stories that challenge conventional narratives and offer nuanced portrayals of disability.
The incident also sparked conversation online, with many praising Cumming’s response and expressing support for Davidson. The New York Times included the incident in a roundup of the “Best and Worst Moments” of the evening, noting the unexpected disruption alongside more conventional award show highlights. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live television and the importance of preparedness and sensitivity when dealing with potentially challenging situations.
While the outburst was jarring for some viewers, it also provided an opportunity for education and understanding. Cumming’s willingness to address the situation directly and explain the context of Davidson’s tics helped to dispel misconceptions about Tourette’s syndrome and promote empathy for those who live with the condition. The incident is likely to fuel further discussion about representation and inclusion in the entertainment industry and beyond.
