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entertainment15h ago
The late Queen's surprising response when Tourette's campaigner John Davidson swore at her
- At the Bafta ceremony, John Davidson yelled a racial slur as Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo presented an award.
- The incident prompted apologies from Bafta host Alan Cumming and prompted debate on Tourette syndrome at high-profile events.
- John Davidson had previously interacted with the Queen during a 2019 investiture, where she acknowledged his TV work on Tourette's awareness.
- Davidson was allowed to leave the investiture early due to his tics, a decision described as royal assent to depart.
- The Queen brushed off the moment when Davidson spoke inappropriately, according to a 2025 interview cited by the article.
- Tourette syndrome is described as a neurological condition with possible coprolalia, which can include involuntary offensive language.
- Charity groups urged understanding and noted tics are neurological, not reflective of personal views.
- Bafta judge Jonte Richardson stepped down over the organisation's handling of the incident.
- The Bafta coverage included a statement from the Awards host apologising for language during the event.
- The article frames the incident within broader debates about inclusion and safeguarding for Black guests at Bafta and similar events.
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