Expletives were heard during the ceremony, including when Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award.
Alan Cumming explained the reason behind the shouting heard during the 79th British Academy Film Awards, clarifying a moment of confusion for both the live audience and viewers at home. The host addressed attendees, asking for understanding after audience member John Davidson experienced tics during the ceremony.
Davidson, the inspiration behind the Bafta-nominated film I Swear, was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at 25 but first noticed symptoms at 12, which include involuntary outbursts, tics and swearing. During the event, expletives such as “shut the f**k up” and “f**k you” were audible, including during BAFTA chair Sara Putt’s speech and when the directors of Arco accepted the award for Best Children’s and Family Film, Mirror reports.
Presenter Michael B Jordan appeared briefly taken aback when an involuntary slur occurred while he was on stage with Sinners co-star Delroy Lindo. Jordan began, “Good evening. Delroy and I are delighted to be presenting the first BAFTA of the night for a vital part of movie making,” before pausing to compose himself.
Lindo then continued, “We’re here to celebrate the artists who expand what’s possible on screen.” Later, Cumming addressed the situation directly, telling the audience: “You may have noticed some strong language in the background.
“This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
The comments were no longer heard after Davidson appeared to leave the room. A source previously confirmed to Variety he was an invited guest and would not be required to leave the ceremony.
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Viewers at home also heard the outbursts during the BBC One and BBC iPlayer broadcast. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, said, “Credit to Alan Cumming for addressing it calmly and reminding the audience of the reality behind the condition.
“A difficult moment, but important context. Tourette’s can include involuntary vocal tics that are completely out of a person’s control.”
Another added: “Shows how live events can include unexpected moments, but also opportunities for understanding and education.” Others expressed initial confusion, asking, “Who keeps shouting in the audience at the #Baftas?” and “Is someone that keeps shouting out? #BAFTAs.”
Before the ceremony, the floor manager introduced Davidson, explaining: “I’d like to welcome John Davidson MBE from one of our nominated films I Swear. John has Tourette Syndrome so please be aware you might hear some involuntary noises or movements during the ceremony.”
I Swear follows Robert Aramayo portraying Davidson from age 25, after his appearance in the BBC documentary John’s Not Mad, which introduced Tourette’s to a wider audience.
The film is up for five Bafta awards, including Best Leading Actor, Best Supporting Actor for Peter Mullan, Best Original Screenplay, Best Casting, and Outstanding British Film.
Since sharing his diagnosis over 40 years ago, Davidson has helped raise awareness of Tourette’s, with public figures including singers Lewis Capaldi and Billie Eilish speaking openly about the condition.
Emma McNally, CEO of the support and research charity Tourettes Action, told Variety: “We’ve had a huge amount of people reach out to us about I Swear, both individuals living with Tourette’s syndrome and those with no previous connection to the condition.
“All have been deeply affected by the film. It’s clearly created a huge public reaction.
“Viewers have told us that seeing John’s real story portrayed with such depth and honesty has given them a far more accurate understanding of what Tourette’s can look like and how it affects the individual – this is something they had given little thought to previously.
“We’re hopeful that as more people talk openly and more accurate on-screen representations appear, we’ll continue moving toward a more inclusive and understanding society for everyone living with Tourette’s.”