The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has issued further statements regarding the N-word controversy that occurred at its recent Film Awards ceremony. In a letter to members, BAFTA Chair Sara Putt and CEO Jane Millichip addressed the incident where Tourette’s syndrome activist John Davidson involuntarily shouted the N-word while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award on stage. The leadership acknowledged the significant harm caused, apologized to all impacted, and confirmed a “comprehensive review” is now underway to understand and prevent future occurrences.

This letter followed an initial public statement from BAFTA, which took full responsibility for the difficult situation guests were placed in. The current review is particularly significant as it comes only six years after BAFTA conducted a major internal review to address diversity issues within its film awards, which led to over 120 changes in its voting, membership, and campaigning processes.

In their detailed communication, Putt and Millichip explicitly addressed the offensive language, recognizing the incomparable trauma and pain it carries. They emphasized that John Davidson MBE, an executive producer of the nominated film “I Swear,” lives with Tourette Syndrome, a neurological disability causing involuntary verbal tics over which an individual has no control. These tics, they clarified, do not reflect an individual's beliefs or intentions.

BAFTA asserted its commitment to the duty of care for all guests, detailing the extensive preparations made to ensure Davidson's presence. Attendees were informed before and during the ceremony that Davidson was in the room and might vocalize involuntary strong and offensive language, noises, or movements. Despite these precautions, the Academy fully understands that their intention to be inclusive did not diminish the impact of the incident.

During the early part of the ceremony, the loud and involuntary tics, including the profoundly offensive term, were heard by many. BAFTA has extended an unreserved apology to Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo, and all others affected, commending Jordan and Lindo for their remarkable dignity and professionalism while regretting the position they were put in. John Davidson also chose to leave the auditorium after the incident, watching the remainder of the ceremony from a screen, for which BAFTA thanked him for his consideration.

BAFTA is actively engaging with the studios involved and confirmed that the BBC has also issued its own apology for the broadcast. The organization acknowledged the complexity of the situation and assured members that it is taking the matter with extreme seriousness. They reinforced their commitment to keeping inclusion at the core of their operations, maintaining their belief in film and storytelling as vital conduits for compassion and empathy, a principle they believe was strongly demonstrated by the nominated and winning films of the year.