Delroy Lindo speaks out after N-word shock at 2026 BAFTAs

Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan found themselves at the centre of an unexpected controversy at the 2026 BAFTAs after an audience member shouted the N-word during their presentation.

The 73-year-old actor, who was handing out the award for Best Visual Effects alongside 39-year-old Michael, described the shocking moment as something he and his co-presenter “did what we had to do” to get through. 

Speaking exclusively to Vanity Fair at an official after-party, Delroy admitted he wished “someone from BAFTA spoke to us afterwards” about the incident.

The outburst came from 54-year-old John Davidson, who has Tourette’s syndrome and was attending as the subject of the nominated biopic I Swear. 

The film’s lead, Robert Aramayo, won Best Actor for his portrayal of John, whose condition causes involuntary vocal tics.

According to Variety, John had multiple outbursts during the ceremony, including shouting profanities during BAFTA chair Sara Putt’s speech and when the directors of Boong collected their award. 

Floor managers reportedly warned guests seated near John but did not inform nominees or other attendees beforehand.

Host Alan Cumming, 61, addressed the audience live, explaining that the “strong language” was involuntary and part of how Tourette’s can manifest. 

He emphasised that it was a disability and apologised to anyone offended.

The controversy extended when the tape-delayed BBC broadcast aired later that evening, leaving the slur audible. 

After removing the ceremony from iPlayer on February 23, a BBC spokesperson said: “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language… This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette’s syndrome. We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast.”

Delroy’s candid remarks shine a light on the challenges faced by presenters in live events and the delicate balance between accessibility and sensitivity at star-studded ceremonies.

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