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Tourettes campaigner breaks silence after racist Bafta slur as he’s left ‘deeply mortified’ following audience shout

TOURETTES campaigner John Davidson said he was mortified after sparking a race row by shouting out the N-word at the Baftas. 

John later voluntarily left the ceremony amid shock at his swearing as Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan were on stage presenting an award. 

The incident happened at the 79th annual British Academy Film Awards, which took place at the Royal Festival Hall on Sunday nightCredit: BBC/UNPIXS
John Davidson said he was ‘deeply mortified’Credit: BBC/UNPIXS
The campaigner made the decision to leave the awards half way through after several involuntary ticsCredit: Getty

But the slur by John — whose life inspired the double gong-winning film I Swear — wasn’t cut from the BBC’s two-hour ceremony coverage at London’s Royal Festival Hall. 

Yesterday, bosses apologised and removed the episode from iPlayer. 

Last night John insisted he was “mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning”. 

And Bafta confirmed he left the room before the awards ended. 

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In statement the organisation said: “Early in the ceremony a loud tic in the form of a profoundly offensive term was heard by many people. 

“Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage at the time, and we apologise unreservedly to them, and to all those impacted.

“We would like to thank Michael and Delroy for their incredible dignity and professionalism. 

“John chose to leave the auditorium and watch the rest of the ceremony from a screen and we would like to thank him for his consideration of others on what should have been a night of celebration for him.” 

I Swear saw ­Robert Aramayo, 33, pick up Best Actor. It also won Best Casting. 

Scottish-born John, 54, is a campaigner for Tourette sufferers and aged 16 was the subject of a BBC documentary, John’s Not Mad, about living with the condition, which leads some to shout swear words. 

The Sun understands that Sunday night’s audience was not told a ­person with Tourette Syndrome was present.

Previously, at the Bafta TV awards, people have been warned in similar situations. 

A source said: “Neither host Alan Cumming nor any of the Bafta team warned people — the apology and comments came after the outbursts.” 

Cumming had said: “Tourette Syndrome is a disability. We apologise if you’re offended tonight.” 

Hannah Beachler, the production designer on movie Sinners, said: “What made the ­situation worse was the throwaway apology of, ‘if you were offended’. Of course we were.” 

It was reported BBC production staff did not hear the N-word — which meant it was left in the coverage.

However, a source added: “It was as loud and as clear as day.” 

The corporation said: “Some may have heard strong and offensive language.

“This arose from involuntary ­verbal tics associated with ­Tourette’s and, as explained during the ­ceremony, it was not intentional. 

“We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast.” 

Campaigner John is the inspiration behind the movie I SwearCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Robert Aramayo posed up with his two BAFTAs – Best Actor and Rising Star after his performance in I Swear
The pair backstage during the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026Credit: Getty

The reality of living with Tourette syndrome

TOURETTE syndrome is a condition that causes a person to make involuntary sounds and movements called tics.

It usually starts during childhood, but the tics and other symptoms often improve after several years, and sometimes go away completely.

There’s no cure for Tourettes, but treatment can help manage symptoms.

The most common physical tics include:

  • Blinking
  • Eye rolling
  • Grimacing
  • Shoulder shrugging
  • Jerking of the head or limbs
  • Jumping
  • Twirling
  • Touching objects and other people

Examples of vocal tics include:

  • Grunting
  • Throat clearing
  • Whistling
  • Coughing
  • Tongue clicking
  • Animal sounds
  • Saying random words and phrases
  • Repeating a sound, word or phrase
  • Swearing

Swearing is rare and only affects about 1 in 10 people with Tourettes.

Some people can control their tics for a short time in certain social situations, like in a classroom.

But this can be tiring, and someone may have a sudden release of tics when they return home.

Aidy Smith, who was diagnosed with Tourettes aged nine, said these are the most common misconceptions about the condition:

  1. It is a ‘swearing disease’ characterised by repeated bad language
  2. People with Tourette’s can’t succeed in the workplace
  3. It’s impossible to control your tics
  4. ‘Tourettes’ is a ‘dirty’ word
  5. It’s OK to make jokes about the condition because it isn’t serious

Source: NHS and Aidy Smith

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Furious row over Tourettes Baftas slur as Jamie Foxx says ‘he meant it’ but charity says it’s ‘NOT intentional!’

JAMIE Foxx has claimed an audience member with Tourettes who shouted a slur at the Baftas “meant it” despite a charity saying it was “not intentional”.

John Davidson, who suffers from Tourette syndrome, let out involuntary shouts including a racial slur due to his condition during the ceremony.

Jamie Foxx blasted John Davidson for the outburst despite his Tourettes diagnosisCredit: Getty
Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo present the Special Visual Effects Award on stageCredit: Getty

The incident happened at the 79th annual British Academy Film Awards, which took place at the Royal Festival Hall last night.

The slur was shouted as actors Delroy Lindo and Michael B Jordan presented the award for special visual effects.

The actors, both stars of vampire horror Sinners, appeared to pause momentarily after the insult was heard but then continued presenting.

But Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx has now blasted John Davidson for his “unacceptable” outburst at the BAFTAs.

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A fuming Foxx said on social media: “Out of all the words you could’ve said Tourette’s makes you say that. Nah he meant that s**t. Unacceptable.” 

The outburst, which was one of many unintentional interruptions, was explained as coming from John, who has Tourette syndrome.

John’s life story inspired the film I Swear which shares John’s journey from his diagnosis before much was known about the condition.

However, campaigners staunchly defended John after his outburst after criticism from Foxx.

Tourettes Action charity said: “We also want to address the negative comments that have surfaced following John’s involuntary vocal tics during the ceremony.

“We deeply understand that these words can cause hurt but, at the same time, it is vital that the public understands a fundamental truth about Tourette syndrome, tics are involuntary.

“They are not a reflection of a person’s beliefs, intentions or character.

“People with Tourettes can say words or phrases they do not mean, do not endorse and feel great distress about afterwards.

“These symptoms are neurological, not intentional, and they are something John – like many others with Tourettes – lives with every single day.”

The title is a nod to his uncontrollable swearing associated with the syndrome.

Earlier, the BBC apologised for the slur after some viewers were left shocked.

And the episode has now been pulled off BBC iPlayer after initial outrage.

The Beeb has confirmed the slur will be edited out of the version uploaded.

A BBC spokesperson said: “Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the BAFTA Film Awards.

“This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and as explained during the ceremony it was not intentional.

“We apologise that this was not edited out prior to broadcast and it will now be removed from the version on BBC iPlayer.”

The reality of living with Tourette syndrome

TOURETTE syndrome is a condition that causes a person to make involuntary sounds and movements called tics.

It usually starts during childhood, but the tics and other symptoms often improve after several years, and sometimes go away completely.

There’s no cure for Tourettes, but treatment can help manage symptoms.

The most common physical tics include:

  • Blinking
  • Eye rolling
  • Grimacing
  • Shoulder shrugging
  • Jerking of the head or limbs
  • Jumping
  • Twirling
  • Touching objects and other people

Examples of vocal tics include:

  • Grunting
  • Throat clearing
  • Whistling
  • Coughing
  • Tongue clicking
  • Animal sounds
  • Saying random words and phrases
  • Repeating a sound, word or phrase
  • Swearing

Swearing is rare and only affects about 1 in 10 people with Tourettes.

Some people can control their tics for a short time in certain social situations, like in a classroom.

But this can be tiring, and someone may have a sudden release of tics when they return home.

Aidy Smith, who was diagnosed with Tourettes aged nine, said these are the most common misconceptions about the condition:

  1. It is a ‘swearing disease’ characterised by repeated bad language
  2. People with Tourette’s can’t succeed in the workplace
  3. It’s impossible to control your tics
  4. ‘Tourettes’ is a ‘dirty’ word
  5. It’s OK to make jokes about the condition because it isn’t serious

Source: NHS and Aidy Smith

During the broadcast, the awards ceremony’s presenter Alan Cumming also issued an apology for the language viewers may hear.

He said: “You may have heard some strong and offensive language tonight. If you have seen the film I Swear, you will know that film is about the experience of a person with Tourette syndrome.

“Tourettes is a disability and the tics you have heard tonight are involuntary, which means the person who has Tourette syndrome has no control over their language.

“We apologise if you were offended.”

But the BBC sparked major backlash after the broadcaster edited out “Free Palestine” during one speech but declined to remove the racial slur at first.

The broadcaster removed the Palestine reference after an acceptance speech made by filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr paid tribute to those who are trying to “obtain a better life for their children”.

Davies Jr. closed his speech by saying: “To the economic migrant. The conflict migrant. Those under occupation, dictatorship, persecution, and those experiencing genocide. You matter.

“Your stories matter more than ever. Your dreams are an act of resistance to those watching at home.  

“Archive your loved ones. Archive your stories yesterday, today, and forever. For Nigeria, for London, the Congo, Sudan, free Palestine.”

Tourettes campaigner John Davidson at the 79th BAFTAsCredit: Shutterstock Editorial

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Toy Story fans horrified as Woody has a BALD SPOT in trailer for fifth movie saying ‘we’re all getting OLD’

TOY STORY fans have been left horrified after noticing that Woody has a bald spot in the trailer for the fifth movie.

The first trailer for the high-anticipated fifth instalment was released yesterday and it looks like fans of the franchise are in for a treat.

Woody has been given a bald spot in the trailer for the fifth Toy Story filmCredit: YouTube
Fans have been left horrified by the momentCredit: YouTube

But loyal Disney enthusiasts have been left saddened by one part of the teaser as signs of aging have creeped up on the toys they know and love.

At one point in the first-look, Woody takes off his cowboy hat and a bald patch can be seen on his head.

A flash of light shines on the spot and blinds the other toys as Trixie the dinosaur cheekily says: “Someone needs a brown marker.”

Lily the Tablet asks: “What are you? Some sort of old man toy?”

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Trixie responds: “She thinks you’re old because you’re bald, Woody!”

The moment didn’t go unnoticed as one viewer commented: “If he is getting old, what does that mean about me?”

Another person said on X: “There was absolutely no reason to give Woody a bald spot.”

Somebody else commented: “Sad to see Woody is going bald.”

Yet another penned: “Woody having a lil bald spot is making me sad.”

While a fifth added: “It’s okay Woody. We all understand and sympathise. I too have a bald spot back there that is slowly turning into a tropical hurricane.”

The synopsis of the film reads: “The toys are back and this time, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie. Will playtime ever be the same?”

The fifth film was first announced back in 2023 along with sequels for Frozen and Zootopia.

Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger expressed: “I’m so pleased to announce that we have sequels in the works from our animation studios to some of our most popular franchises – Toy Story, Frozen and Zootopia.

“We’ll have more to share about these productions soon, but this is a great example of how we’re leaning into our unrivalled brands and franchises.”

Several stars from the first films are back, including Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz, John Ratzenberger as Hamm, Wallace Shawn as Rex, Blake Clark as Slinky Dog, Annie Potts as Bo Peep and Joan Cusack as Jessie.

Among the newcomers are Scarlett Spears as the new voice of Bonnie, Craig Robinson as GPS hippo toy Atlas, Shelby Rabara as excitable camera toy Snappy, Mykal-Michelle Harris as Blaze, Conan O’Brien as Smarty Pants, and Matty Matheson as tech-fearing toy Dr Nutcase.

The first Pixar film released back in 1995, followed by Toy Story 2 in 1999 and Toy Story 3 in 2010.

The fourth instalment came out in 2010 and a spin-off of Buzz Lightyear’s character was released in 2022.

Toy Story 5 releases in cinemas on June 19

The gang are back yet again for even more mischiefCredit: Alamy

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Inside Macaulay Culkin and ‘mama’ Catherine O’Hara’s close bond as Home Alone star says ‘I thought we still had time’

FOLLOWING the tragic news of actress Catherine O’Hara’s passing at the age of 71 following a short illness, her Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin paid a touching tribute to his “mama”.

The two starred in the iconic film together back in 1990, where he played the mischievous Kevin McCallister  while she portrayed the role of Kate, his long-suffering mum.

Macaulay Culkin has paid a heartfelt tribute to his co-star Catherine O’Hara following her deathCredit: Getty
The Home Alone actor was seen for the first since the news brokeCredit: BackGrid

They reunited two years later for the sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and have continued to share a mother and son bond over the years.

The pair showed just how close they are when she honoured him at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2023.

As the world mourns the legendary actress, let’s take a look at her relationship with Macaulay and their extremely close bond…

Heartfelt Tribute

Macaulay was one of the first to pay tribute to the Schitt’s Creek star as he posted two pictures from Home Alone and the Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony on his Instagram.

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He penned: “Mama, I thought we had time.

“I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say.

“I love you. I’ll see you later,” the 45-year-old signed off.

Heartbroken Home Alone fans flocked to the comments section as one said: “Oh my god, I can’t believe it. Rest in peace Catherine. Thank you for taking care of Kevin.”

Another social media user penned: “A part of our childhood has been shattered today. Heartbroken.”

The pair worked together in the iconic Christmas film as well it’s sequelCredit: 20th Century Fox

Hollywood Walk of Fame reunion

She attended his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in December 2023 and honoured him as he received his star.

Catherine gushed in her speech: “Home Alone was, is and always will be a beloved global sensation… the reason families all over the world can’t let a year go by without watching and loving Home Alone together is because of Macaulay Culkin.”

She went on to praise his professionalism and passion for acting, as well as bringing his “sweet and twisted yet totally relatable humour” to every project.

“Macaulay, congratulations. You so deserve your star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

“And thank you for including me, your fake mom who left you home alone not once but twice, to share in this happy occasion. I’m so proud of you,” she joked.

She honoured him at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in December 2023Credit: Getty

Mother and son bond

Despite it being more than three and a half decades since Home Alone released, the co-stars have continued to share a deep bond with one another.

During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live! In 2015, she revealed the two had a sweet reunion at an art opening.

“He was coming out and he went, ‘Mommy!’ and I said, ‘Baby’,” Catherine told host Andy Cohen.

He also confirmed that he called her “mom” each time her saw her, proving their bond was unmatched.

Macaulay told New York Times in 2024: “She opens up her arms – she goes, ‘Son’.”

On-screen reunion

The much-loved duo delighted fans back in 2024 when they reunited on-screen for a Christmas ad for Freedom Unlimited alongside Kevin Hart.

Catherine was seen walking into a shopping mall before shouting out her iconic “KEVIN!” dialogue.

The co-stars shared a warm embrace, with Kevin joining in on the hug with the two.

Excited fans couldn’t believe their eyes as one gushed: “This is hysterical. I love these nostalgic commercials.”

Somebody else added: “So beautiful, a home alone reunion.”

Co-star chemistry

Macaulay and Catherine’s on-screen camaraderie translated off-screen, with many Home Alone fans believing they were actually mother and son in real life.

She recalled to Today in 2024: “A child came up to me, like, a little 8-year-old, in a mall. ‘Are you Kevin’s mom?’

“I said, ‘Well, yeah, I played Kevin’s mom in a movie, yes’.

‘Why did you leave him?’ ‘Sorry. It was in the script!’,” she remembered.

Speaking to PEOPLE back in 1990, when the film first released, Catherine described then 9-year-old Macaulay as ”a darling little guy who has been acting since he was 4, so he’s very professional.”

“He comes in knowing all his lines, knowing where to hit his marks — he even knows all the other actors’ lines.

“I expect he should become the head of the studio by the time he is 12,” she joked.

They’ve shared a deep bond since starring as the iconic mother and son duoCredit: Twentieth Century Fox / Supplied by LMK

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Sydney Sweeney sizzles in paparazzi-themed photoshoot to show off new thong from her brand Syrn

PHOTO op queen Sydney Sweeney appears to have gone all camera shy — but then it was all an act to promote her underwear range.

The Euphoria actress, 28, chose a paparazzi-theme to show off the Seduction Bra and String You Along thong from her brand Syrn.

Sydney Sweeney chose a paparazzi-theme to show off the Seduction Bra and String You Along thongCredit: SYRN.com
Another photo showed her in a fantasy lace halter bodysuitCredit: SYRN

Another photo showed her in a fantasy lace halter bodysuit.

And fans appear to be falling for the hype.

One would-be buyer on social media was disappointed to find it was sold out, adding: “So sad.”

Another commented: “How is it all gone already?”

Read more on Sydney Sweeney

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Sydney Sweeney sizzles as she strips off to lace thong, bra & suspenders

Among the items which were snapped up was the $89 fantasy lace halter bodysuit and the “String You Along” lace thong costing $19.

Sydney previously revealed Syrn will offer designs split into four “personas” — seductress, romantic, playful and comfy — with 44 sizes between 30B and 42DDD.

She said: “The secret is finally out . . . this is lingerie you wear for YOU, no explanation, no apology.

“I wanted to create a place where women can move between all the different versions of who we are.

“I love working on cars, I go water skiing, I’ll dress up for the red carpet then go home to snuggle my dogs.

“I’m not one thing, no woman is.”

Euphoria actress Sydney dazzles in another piece from her brand SyrnCredit: SYRN.com

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