The BAFTA Film Awards 2026 witnessed the biggest stars from around the world. While the focus remained on the awards and speeches, there was commotion in between after John Davidson, a nominee with Tourette's syndrome, used racial slur words while Black actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award. Actor and filmmaker Alan Cumming, who recently hosted the BAFTA, has reacted to the controversy.

Alan Cumming addresses BAFTA’s controversy

The actor took to Instagram to address the outburst by Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson at the 79th edition of the ceremony, during which he shouted the N-word while ‘Sinners’ stars Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were onstage. He wrote, “What should’ve been an evening celebrating creativity, as well as diversity and inclusion, turned into a trauma-triggering s*******. I’m so sorry for all the pain Black people have felt at hearing that word echoed around the world. I’m so sorry the Tourette’s community has been reminded of the lack of understanding and tolerance that abounds regarding their condition.”