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John Davidson, the Tourette’s campaigner at the center of the BAFTA Film Awards backlash, has released a statement after shouting a racial slur at presenters Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo during the ceremony.
“I can only add that I am and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” said Davidson, whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated I Swear. He was in attendance as an executive producer on the film, which won star Robert Aramayo the best actor BAFTA in quite the upset.
“I wanted to thank BAFTA and everyone involved in the awards last night for their support and understanding and inviting me to attend the broadcast,” continued Davidson. “I appreciated the announcement to the auditorium in advance of the recording, warning everyone that my tics are involuntary and are not a reflection of my personal beliefs. I was heartened by the round of applause that followed this announcement and felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for me.”
“I was in attendance to celebrate the film of my life, I Swear, which more than any film or TV documentary, explains the origins, condition, traits and manifestations of Tourette Syndrome. 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. I chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing.”
Tourette’s is a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary, and repetitive movements or sounds, called “tics.” They can manifest as loud swearing or other outbursts, which BAFTA attendees were warned about ahead of the show Sunday night, and prior to Davidson’s leaving the ceremony.
Davidson’s statement follows BAFTA’s formal apology to Jordan and Lindo. “Our guests heard very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many,” that statement began. “We want to acknowledge the harm this has caused, address what happened and apologise to all… We would like to thank [Davidson] for his dignity and consideration of others, on what should have been a night of celebration for him,” BAFTA added.
U.K. charity Tourette’s Action also took to Instagram in defence of the activist, maintaining that his statements are “not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions, or character.”
“We are incredibly proud of John and everyone involved in I Swear following last night’s BAFTA Awards,” the post began. “The film has already raised so much awareness about Tourette syndrome and the daily reality faced by those living with the condition. The impact it has had on audiences, families, and those within the Tourette’s community is huge, and we could not be more grateful for the support the film continues to receive.”
“This moment reflects exactly what I Swear shows so openly: the isolation, misunderstanding, and emotional weight that so often accompany this condition. People with Tourette’s manage their physical and social environments and symptoms on a constant basis. The price of being misunderstood is increased isolation, risk of anxiety and depression and death by suicide… We hope that those commenting will take the time to watch the film, learn about Tourette’s, and understand the experiences behind moments like these. Education is key, and compassion makes a world of difference.”
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Lily Ford
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