BBC issues apology after disruption at BAFTA ceremony
The BBC has apologised after offensive language was heard during the BAFTA Film Awards ceremony on Sunday night, prompting confusion among viewers and an on-stage response from the host.
A clip circulated online showing an audience member shouting a racial slur while actors Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the first award of the evening. Both men appeared to pause briefly before continuing.
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Read the full reportUS outlet Variety reported additional outbursts during the ceremony, including interruptions directed at BAFTA chair Sara Putt and during the acceptance of the award for best children’s and family film.
The BBC later attributed the incidents to an attendee with Tourette syndrome.
A spokesperson said: “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the BAFTA Film Awards 2026.
“This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome and was not intentional. We apologise for any offence caused.”
Host Alan Cumming also addressed the disruption during the broadcast, explaining that Tourette syndrome is a disability and that vocal tics are involuntary.
The condition, according to NHS guidance, involves sudden, repetitive sounds or movements known as tics. While symptoms vary, only a small proportion of people with Tourette syndrome experience coprolalia, the involuntary use of inappropriate language.
The incident occurred during a ceremony that also saw British actor Robert Aramayo win best actor for his performance in I Swear, a film based on the life of Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson.
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