A man with Tourette’s shouted a racial slur at the 2026 BAFTA Awards, prompting a pause, but host Alan Cumming explained it was likely an involuntary tic, not hate speech.

A man with Tourette Syndrome shouted a racial slur during the 2026 BAFTA Awards while actor Michael B. Jordan was presenting, prompting a brief interruption. The incident, which occurred during a live broadcast, drew immediate attention and sparked debate over involuntary speech, mental health, and public conduct. The host, Alan Cumming, addressed the audience, explaining that the outburst was likely an involuntary tic and not intentional hate speech, urging understanding. The man, identified as Tourette’s advocate John Davidson, was not arrested but taken into police custody for assessment. The ceremony resumed without further disruption, and organizers emphasized inclusivity. The event ignited broader conversations about neurodiversity, empathy, and how society responds to offensive language in public settings.