A BAFTA jury member has quit following a controversial on-air incident, which saw Tourette’s advocate John Davidson call out the “n-word” while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting during the award show on Sunday night.
Jonte Richardson, a producer and editor, announced on LinkedIn his decision to withdraw from BAFTA’s emerging talent judging panel, calling the organizations’ handling of the matter “utterly unforgivable.”
RELATED: Delroy Lindo, Michael B Jordan, Tourette activist John Davidson receive BAFTA apology
“I cannot and will not contribute my time energy and expertise to an organization that has repeatedly failed to safeguard the dignity of its Black guests, members and the Black creative community,” Richardson, who is Black, wrote, explaining that “remaining involved would be tantamount to condoning its behavior.”
He added that the incident caused harm for “both the Black and disabled communities,” then went on to say he hopes BAFTA leadership can “comprehend the damage they and the BBC have caused, and take the necessary steps to ensure their production staff is inclusive enough to prevent such an issue in the future.”
During the award ceremony on Sunday, host Alan Cumming told audience members that Davidson was in the crowd, explaining the “strong language in the background” can “be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people.” He also thanked guests “for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
The “Sinners” stars had been presenting the award for Best Visual Effects when the incident occurred. In addition to yelling the n-word, Davidson could also be heard s, “Shut the f–k up,” and “f–k you” throughout the night.
“I Swear,” a movie inspired by Davidson’s life, was among the films nominated for a BAFTA this weekend. Robert Aramayo won best actor for his leading role as Davidson.
“In addition to the announcement by Alan Cumming, the BBC and BAFTA, I can only add that I am, and always have been deeply mortified if anyone considers my involuntary tics to be intentional or to carry any meaning,” Davidson said in wake of the incident.
Davidson has Tourette’s with coprolalia, which can cause “the involuntary outburst of obscene words or socially inappropriate and derogatory remarks,” according to the Tourette Association of America. “Other examples may include references to genitals, excrement and sexual acts.” While it is one of the more well-known versions of Tourette’s, most people diagnosed with the condition do not experience this symptom.
Late on Monday, BAFTA put out a statement in which it said that it took “full responsibility” for putting its “guests in a very difficult situation and we apologize to all.” It also praised both Jordan and Lindo “for their incredible dignity and professionalism.”
Leave a Reply