John Davidson has issued a Tourette’s tics response after an incident at the Bafta Film Awards. He said the words heard during the ceremony oppose everything he believes.
The moment occurred while Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan stood on stage. During that time, Davidson experienced several vocal tics. One tic included a racial slur that drew global attention.
However, Davidson explained that he experienced multiple involuntary outbursts that night. In a new interview, he said he shouted nearly 10 different offensive words. Therefore, he urged people to view the incident in full context.
He stressed that Tourette’s tics response requires understanding of the condition. Moreover, he said the racial slur was only one of several involuntary phrases. He added that media reports focused on a single word. Consequently, that focus created a misleading impression.
Davidson described how certain sounds and remarks can trigger his tics. For example, when host Alan Cumming made a joke about Paddington Bear, Davidson experienced additional vocal outbursts. He said he shouted “pedophile” during that segment. He linked the tic to the mention of a children’s character.
Additionally, he recalled shouting “boring” when a Bafta chairperson began speaking. He explained that his brain reacts instantly to what he sees or hears. This reaction forms part of a symptom called echolalia.
Tourette’s tics response also highlights the distress such episodes cause. Davidson said the condition can feel spiteful and target upsetting words. Furthermore, he said the phrases represent the opposite of his beliefs. He condemned the racial slur and said he would never use it intentionally.
After realizing Lindo and Jordan likely heard the outburst, Davidson chose to leave the auditorium. He later reflected on the moment with regret and concern.
Davidson inspired the Bafta-winning drama I Swear, which stars Robert Aramayo and Maxine Peake. Aramayo won Best Actor for his performance.
Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition marked by motor and vocal tics. Some people experience coprolalia, which involves involuntary swearing. Although the words can shock audiences, doctors classify them as complex vocal tics. They do not reflect deliberate intent.
Through this Tourette’s tics response, Davidson hopes to raise awareness. He wants audiences to understand the condition rather than judge the person.
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