Alan Cumming addresses John Davidson outbursts at BAFTA 2026

BAFTA host Alan Cumming asks for understanding after John Davidson’s Tourette’s-related outbursts at awards

BAFTA Film Awards host Alan Cumming addressed the audience on February 21 following a series of involuntary outbursts from Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson during the 2026 ceremony in London.

Davidson, whose life inspired the BAFTA-nominated film I Swear, has Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological condition characterized by tics and uncontrollable verbal outbursts.

During the ceremony, Davidson shouted phrases including expletives and racial slurs while awards were presented, prompting Cumming to explain the situation to viewers. “Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability and the tics you’ve heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette’s Syndrome has no control over their language. We apologize if you are offended tonight,” Cumming said. He thanked the audience, including Prince William and Princess Catherine, for their understanding and for creating a respectful environment.

Davidson, 25, was introduced to the audience before the ceremony began, with the floor manager noting that attendees might hear involuntary noises or movements. The film I Swear, directed by Kirk Jones and featuring Robert Aramayo as Davidson, follows his life and advocacy work, highlighting the challenges and public misunderstandings surrounding Tourette’s. The film received five BAFTA nominations, including Best Leading Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Outstanding British Film, and won for casting. Aramayo also received the EE Rising Star award.

Emma McNally, CEO of Tourettes Action, praised the film’s impact, stating it has given audiences a more accurate understanding of the syndrome. Davidson’s public advocacy over decades has helped raise awareness, joining a growing list of celebrities, including Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi, who have spoken openly about living with Tourette’s.