John Davidson became the center of attention at the 79th BAFTA Film Awards in London, where host Alan Cumming addressed repeated audience outbursts during the ceremony. Guests had been warned beforehand that involuntary tics, including noises, movements, or swearing, could occur.
As awards were being presented, John Davidson shouted multiple phrases from the audience, including expletives and racial slurs. During the first award presentation for best visual effects, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo paused briefly after a racial slur was shouted, then continued. Additional interruptions followed during pre-show announcements and opening remarks, including “Boring!”, “Bullshit!” and “Shut the f*** up.”
Cumming later told the audience that Tourette syndrome is a disability and that the tics heard were involuntary and not under the person’s control. He apologized to anyone offended and thanked attendees, including Prince William and Princess Catherine, for maintaining a respectful environment.
The BBC broadcast aired on a delay and apologized for strong and offensive language. The disruptions stopped during the second half after John Davidson left the venue and organizers did not ask him to leave.
