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Tourette Syndrome Advocate 'Mortified' Some May Think BAFTA Outbursts Were 'Intentional'
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Tourette syndrome advocate John Davidson addressed backlash over his involuntary outbursts during Sunday’s BAFTA Film Awards, saying he is “deeply mortified” anyone may misinterpret his tics as “intentional.” In a statement released on Monday, Davidson explained that the expletives and slurs he yelled during the ceremony were not a “reflection of my personal beliefs,” in light of scrutiny over him shouting the N-word while “Sinners” stars Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting an award. Davidson, whose life story was the inspiration for the BAFTA-winning film “I Swear,” thanked awards organizers for their “support and understanding” as he shared how he was heartened by people’s response to a pre-ceremony announcement notifying attendees they may hear “involuntary noises or movements” from Davidson due to his disability. Saying he felt “welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally be impossible for me,” Davidson also thanked host Alan Cumming for reminding audiences people with Tourette syndrome cannot control their tics. He went on to add that he was and “deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning.” “I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and to teach empathy, kindness and understanding from others and I will continue to do so,” the statement continued. “I chose to leave the auditorium early into the ceremony as I was aware of the distress my tics were causing.” BAFTA also issued a public statement on Monday, in which the organization apologized for “very offensive language that carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many” that audiences may have heard. The statement went on to acknowledge “the harm” caused by the incident while also thanking Jordan and Lindo for their “incredible dignity and professionalism.” Davidson’s disruptions have largely overshadowed what was a standout night for “I Swear,” whose star Robert Aramayo beat A-listers Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet for the Best Actor honor. Aramayo called Davidson “the most remarkable man I ever met” while picking up the Rising Star Award earlier in the evening, celebrating the advocate for his work educating people about Tourette syndrome. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.