The British Academy of Film Awards (BAFTA) and the BBC issued apologies Monday following the broadcast of a racial slur during Sunday’s ceremony while actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were onstage presenting, according to AP News.
The slur was shouted by John Davidson, a campaigner for Tourette syndrome, who later said he was “deeply mortified” and that his words “do not reflect my personal beliefs,” AP News reported.
BAFTA expressed regret for the incident, saying the offensive language “carries incomparable trauma and pain for so many.” The organization also thanked Jordan and Lindo for displaying “incredible dignity and professionalism” during the broadcast.
The incident occurred after host Alan Cumming introduced Davidson to the audience as a guest in attendance, who then uttered the slur while the two Black actors were presenting, according to AP News.
Both BAFTA and the BBC have faced criticism for the lapse, prompting renewed discussions about live broadcasting safeguards and the responsibilities of awards organizations in preventing offensive content from reaching audiences.