The BBC has apologised for “any offence caused” after broadcasting a racial slur shouted by a guest with Tourette syndrome at the BAFTAs while two black presenters were on stage.

John Davidson, whose life story inspired the film I Swear, shouted the N-word as Sinners stars Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented the award for special visual effects at Sunday’s ceremony.

The unintended outburst was not edited or beeped out from the BBC’s delayed television broadcast or BBC iPlayer, where it could still be heard on Tuesday morning (AEDT).

“Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the BAFTA Film Awards 2026,” a BBC spokesperson said.

“This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and was not intentional.

“We apologise for any offence caused by the language heard.”

During the broadcast, presenter Alan Cumming apologised for the language.

“You may have heard some strong and offensive language tonight,” he said.

“If you have seen the film I Swear, you will know that film is about the experience of a person with Tourette syndrome.

“Tourette syndrome is a disability and the tics you have heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette syndrome has no control over their language.

“We apologise if you were offended.”

Davidson, who had several other involuntary outbursts earlier in the night, reportedly left the ceremony after the incident. In a statement later, he said he was “deeply mortified” by the incident.

“In addition to the announcement by [show host] Alan Cumming, the BBC and BAFTA, 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,” Davidson said on Monday (British time).

“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.”

Later, Lindo told Vanity Fair that he and Jordan “did what we had to do” and continued presenting their award. He said he wished “someone from BAFTA spoke to us afterwards”.

I Swear stars Robert Aramayo, and tells the story of Scottish campaigner for Tourette syndrome, Davidson. He developed the condition when he was 12, and was in the audience for at least part of the ceremony.

Aramayo won best actor and the EE rising star award for his performance in the film, which also won best casting.

At Sunday’s ceremony, Sinners director Ryan Coogler became the first black winner of the BAFTA for best original screenplay for the film, which also won best supporting actress for Wunmi Mosaku and original score.

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts, Tourette Scotland, Lindo and Jordan have been contacted for comment.

Also on Monday, Emma McNally, the CEO of UK charity Tourettes Action, said the backlash from “certain parts of the media” about Davidson’s “involuntary vocal tics” was “extremely saddening”.

“We deeply understand that these words can cause hurt but at the same time, it is vital that the public understands a fundamental truth about Tourette syndrome: Tics are involuntary,” she said.

“They are not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions, or character.”

-with AAP