Tourette Syndrome Advocate John Davidson Responds to BAFTA Awards Incident
John Davidson, a prominent advocate for Tourette syndrome, has publicly addressed the backlash stemming from his involuntary outbursts during Sunday's BAFTA Film Awards ceremony. In a statement released on Monday, Davidson expressed that he is "deeply mortified" by the possibility that anyone might misinterpret his tics as intentional actions.
Clarifying the Uncontrollable Nature of Tics
Davidson explained that the expletives and slurs he yelled during the event, including shouting the N-word while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award, were not a "reflection of my personal beliefs." He emphasized that these vocalizations were entirely involuntary manifestations of his neurological condition, which he has lived with and advocated around for years.
The advocate, whose life story inspired the BAFTA-winning film "I Swear," extended his gratitude to the awards organizers for their "support and understanding." He noted being heartened by the audience's response to a pre-ceremony announcement that informed attendees they might hear involuntary noises or movements from him due to his disability.
Acknowledging the Distress and Choosing to Leave
"I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness and understanding from others and I will continue to do so," Davidson's statement continued. He revealed that he chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony because he was acutely aware of the distress his tics were causing to those around him.
Davidson also thanked host Alan Cumming for reminding the audience that individuals with Tourette syndrome cannot control their tics. He described feeling "welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for me."
BAFTA's Official Response and Apology
In a separate public statement also issued on Monday, BAFTA apologized for the "very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many" that audiences may have heard. The organization acknowledged "the harm" caused by the incident while simultaneously thanking Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo for their "incredible dignity and professionalism" during the presentation.
The Overlooked Triumph of "I Swear"
The disruptions unfortunately overshadowed what was otherwise a standout night for the film "I Swear." Its star, Robert Aramayo, secured the Best Actor honor, triumphing over acclaimed actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. Earlier in the evening, while accepting the Rising Star Award, Aramayo celebrated Davidson, calling him "the most remarkable man I ever met" and praising his tireless work in educating the public about Tourette syndrome.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about visibility, understanding, and the challenges faced by individuals with neurological conditions in high-profile public settings.
