During the BAFTA awards, John Davidson, a 54-year-old sufferer of Tourette's syndrome, shocked viewers by shouting obscenities including a racial slur aimed at the audience, drawing criticism for the lack of censorship from the event organizers. Davidson's outburst came during the presentation of actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, leading to public outrage as many expected more editing during the live broadcast.

John Davidson later expressed feelings of 'unbearable guilt and shame' for his actions, noting that his condition caused these words to erupt uncontrollably. His comments included demeaning insults directed at the event's host, Alan Cumming, where he infamously referred to him as a 'paedophile'. Davidson's episode has sparked discussions about how public events manage the portrayal of individuals with Tourette's syndrome and their unique challenges in social situations.

The BAFTA organization has issued an apology for not effectively managing the situation live, reflecting on the difficulties in balancing live broadcasts with sensitivity towards viewers and participants. Davidson has also responded, emphasizing that while the comments he made were regrettable, they were involuntary due to his medical condition. This incident highlights not only the complexities of Tourette's syndrome but also raises broader awareness of how individuals with such conditions navigate public life.