John Davidson says homophobic tic was cut from BAFTAs broadcast
John Davidson at the 2026 BAFTAs (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
Activist John Davidson has said the BBC edited out a homophobic slur he involuntarily shouted after Alan Cumming made a joke referencing Peruvian bears during the British Academy of Film and Television Arts ceremony, while another offensive outburst aired in error.
Davidson, who has Tourette Syndrome with coprolalia, faced backlash after shouting a racial slur during the event, which prompted an apology from the broadcaster and the programme’s removal from iPlayer.
He later explained that he experienced 10 different offensive tics throughout the night, saying the condition can be triggered by what he hears or sees.
In an interview with Variety, Davidson said he felt “shame and embarrassment” over the incident and expressed disappointment that the broadcast team had not anticipated or edited the outbursts more effectively.
During the ceremony, Cumming addressed the audience to explain that Tourette Syndrome is a disability and that such vocalisations are involuntary.
Davidson has since reached out to actors Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan, who were on stage at the time, as he continues to call for greater public understanding of the condition.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
