A British Academy of Film and Television Arts judge (BAFTA) has stepped down. Following the “unforgivable” handling of an incident involving a Tourette’s sufferer at the BAFTA Film Awards over the weekend.
During the ceremony on Sunday, February 22, John Davidson. Who has Tourette’s syndrome, involuntarily shouted the N-word while Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan were presenting the award for special visual effects.
Mr. Davidson later left the venue and issued an apology. The BBC also apologized for not removing the racial slur from the delayed broadcast.
Judge Jonte Richardson Explained His Decision
In response to the incident, British Academy of Film and Television Arts judge Jonte Richardson. Announced his resignation from the BAFTA Emerging Talent judging panel. Writing on LinkedIn, he explained his decision:
“After much soul-searching, I feel I must step down from the BAFTA Emerging Talent judging panel. The way the organization handled the Tourette’s-related N-word incident at the awards was utterly unforgivable. I cannot, in good conscience, continue to contribute my time, energy, and expertise to an organization. That has repeatedly failed to protect the dignity of its Black guests, members, and the Black creative community.
“This is especially disappointing because this year’s cohort includes some incredible Black talent. Including one of my favorite shows of 2025, Just Act Normal.
“However, when an organization like BAFTA, with its long history of systemic racism. Refuses to acknowledge the harm caused to both the Black and disabled communities or issue a proper apology, staying involved would feel like condoning their actions.
“I hope BAFTA leadership understands the damage they and the BBC have caused. And takes steps to ensure their production teams are more inclusive in the future.”
Jonte Richardson’s resignation came before John Davidson released his own statement. In it, Mr. Davidson expressed deep regret, saying he was “mortified”. If anyone believed his involuntary tics were intentional or carried any meaning.
He explained that he chose to leave the auditorium early because he was “aware of the distress my tics were causing.”
Mr. Davidson added: “I want to thank BAFTA and everyone involved in the awards. For their support and understanding, as well as for inviting me to attend the broadcast.
“I appreciated the announcement made to the audience before the recording. Explaining that my tics are involuntary and do not reflect my personal beliefs.
“I was touched by the round of applause that followed the announcement and felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be very challenging for me.”
