Alan Cumming speaks out after John Davidson outburst at BAFTA ceremony

Cumming apologised after Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson shouted the N-word at the 79th BAFTA cermony

Alan Cumming has issued a public apology following an outburst during the 79th BAFTA Film Awards in London.

The ceremony host addressed the incident on Instagram after Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson shouted the N-word while Sinners actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage. The interruption occurred during what had been intended as a celebration of film, diversity and inclusion.

 

 

 

 

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“What should’ve been an evening celebrating creativity as well as diversity and inclusion turned into a trauma triggering shitshow,” Cumming wrote. “I’m so sorry for all the pain Black people have felt at hearing that word echoed around the world. I’m so sorry the Tourettes community has been reminded of the lack of understanding and tolerance that abounds regarding their condition.”

He continued, “The only possible good that could come of this is a reminder that words matter, that rushing to judgement about things of which we are not fully cognisant is folly, that all trauma must be recognised and honoured.”

Cumming also said he felt “let down” that the BBC allowed the slur to be broadcast audibly, while choosing to “censor free speech” elsewhere in the programme. He appeared to reference the decision to cut Akinola Davies Jr saying “free Palestine” during his acceptance speech for outstanding British debut for My Father’s Shadow.

Cumming concluded his post by congratulating the evening’s winners, reaffirming his support for the film community despite the disruption.